When watching Muay Thai for the first time, you may notice that fighters often perform a short ritual in the ring before the fight begins.
This ritual is known as the Wai Kru / Ram Muay. It is a traditional part of Muay Thai, performed before the first round as a way for fighters to show respect to their teachers, their training, and the sport itself.
What Does Wai Kru / Ram Muay Mean?
The name Wai Kru / Ram Muay comes from several Thai words, each describing a part of the ritual:
- Wai (ไหว้) - means 'pay respects'
- Kru (ครู) - means '(to) teacher'
- Ram (รำ) - means 'dance'
- Muay (มวย) - means 'boxing'
Together, Wai Kru Ram Muay can be understood as “paying respect to the teacher through dance and boxing”, or more naturally, “a ritual of paying respect to the teacher in Muay Thai.”
Why Fighters Perform the Wai Kru Ram Muay
The ritual serves several purposes:
Cultural Tradition
Muay Thai developed in Thailand as both a combat sport and a cultural practice. The Wai Kru Ram Muay preserves traditions that existed long before modern rules, gloves, and timed rounds were introduced.
Respect & Acknowledgment
The ritual formally acknowledges the role of teachers and trainers. In traditional Thai culture, teachers hold a very high status, and the Wai Kru reflects this value.
Mental Preparation
Performing the ritual allows fighters time to:
- Focus
- Calm nerves
- Mentally prepare for the fight
Ring Familiarisation
As fighters move around the ring during the Ram Muay, they:
- Check footing
- Adjust to ring size
- Get comfortable with the space
This is a practical benefit rather than a symbolic one.
Is the Wai Kru Ram Muay the Same for Every Fighter?
No. There is no single, universal Wai Kru Ram Muay.
Differences may depend on:
- Gym or trainer lineage
- Region in Thailand
- Personal preference
- Time constraints of the event
Some fighters perform very short rituals, while others perform longer and more elaborate sequences.
Does the Wai Kru Ram Muay Affect Scoring or Judging?
No. Judges do not score the Wai Kru / Ram Muay.
- It has no impact on who wins or loses
- It does not influence round scoring
- It is completed before the fight officially begins
While a well performed Wai Kru might garner favour from the audience, once the first round starts only the fighting itself is judged.
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to common questions about the Wai Kru Ram Muay