Lumbini stadium implements new muaythai rules on grappling and kneeing
Written by Varut, editor: Wissawa
Tuesday, 20 May 2008

Lumbini boxing stadium has announced new rules for muaythai grappling and kneeing which have been in effect since May 9.

The new scoring scheme on kneeing is aimed to make the muaythai matches “more beautiful,” according to the technical committee which included Lieutenant General Pdermsak Mekkapatana, Radom Na Bangchang, and Colonel Narin Puangkaew. The new rules require the fighters to be immediately split if they engaged in particular types of clinching and side kneeing.

The fighters are allowed to grab the opponents above the shoulders while effectively kneeing the opponents. Such effective kneeing must have a target and enough power as well as not violating other rules.

Other types of grappling such as wrapping around the chest or midsection are not allowed and the fighters will be immediately split.

The grappling must be followed by kneeing within about three seconds or the referee will split the fighters. If the kneeing was not effective, the fighters would be split as well.

The new rules were already enforced on the matches on May 9 which had confused some spectators who thought the referees prematurely split the kneeing fighters. The Lumpini stadium committee said they were willing to answer inquiries from the people and would observe the long-term effects of the new rules on muaythai.

Chief of Lumbini stadium Major General Thera Kripanon said the enforcement of the new rules would face some troubles at first but eventually would help recreating muaythai as a more enticing sport for the spectators.



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