Kru Yod trains guest on the Muay Thai pads
Kru Robert trains pads for his next fight.
One-on-one training @ every session.
Learning proper Muay Thai technique.
Train and fight Muay Thai and MMA in Thailand.
Training Muay Thai on Nai Harn Beach, Phuket, Thailand
Alan Chapman (Australia) returns to Tiger Muay Thai for 2nd year and scores his 3rd KO. Little Robert scored a 3-card points win over his tough southern Thai opponent, and Robert loses close fight to awkward fighter.
Alan trained hard with Kroo Robert for last 3 weeks and came to the camp in great shape. Alan returned to TMT an scored a 1st round KO giving up 20+ fights and 8 kg to his opponent. Alan's speed and technique was too much for the Thai as a solid left hook crashed him to the floor where the referee called the fight.
Little Robert returned to ring 7-1 over hislast 8 fights and looking at a tough south Thailand opponent. It was a rough fight, but Robert outscored in the clinch and was the constant agressor winning on the judges scorecards.
Kroo Robert fought an awkward style fighter and failed to use his strengths after a hard weeks work in the ring training guests and 2-3 private lessons a day. Robert scored but was outpointed for the loss in the Muay Thai clinch which is very important to the judges,
Ngoo, coming off a loss and exhausted from working his high season schedule and giving private lessons looked for the early KO with his favorite weapon: the elbow. But his determined opponent took he fight to the later rounds and Ngoo turned to his high power clinch to score points and the win.Ngoo scores several big throws and feints to win the unanimous decision.
In the headline fight of the evening, Neung took on local Surat Champion and brought his "A" game scoring from the clinch and out-pointing his opponent until referee stopped the fight in the 4th round for a TKO for Neung.
Noppadech, Tiger Muay Thai advanced trainer, Lumpinee,Bangkok TV 7, Patong, and Bangla Champion will fight in the North Thailand Championships March 30-31, 2008.
Danny is a professional Sanda fighter with over 40 kickboxing fights. He has also been competing in MMA and is a mixed martial arts veteran of over 10 pro fights. Danny has been working on his submission defense while improving his cardio, and continuing to perfect his standup. He will be rematching undefeated submission specialist Arno Rotggans in April.
Check out a few of Danny's fights
Danny Hoyer Vs Eddy Ter Veen- K-1 Amsterdam, knock out combat
Danny Vs Dmytro Slipets MMA Fight
Arno Rotggans Rematch Soon
The trainers packed into the cards and headed off for 1.5 hours to the Thaland Buddhist Temple Muay Thai Fesival and Fair as Tiger Muay Thai trainers, Ritt and Nopadech headlined the 10-fight event as part of the festival.
Ritt scored another body shot KO to the liver of his opponent with his devastating left hook and a 3rd round KO.
Noppadech, headlining the fight card, won a unanamous decision and "Fight of the Night" award for his skillfull performance beating a local Thalang fighter.
Tiger MT also won the best all-around gym award and best "Ram Muay Wai Kru" with Ritt's rendition of a Northern Style "Wai Kroo" that had the crowd cheering.
It was a day of celebration and fun on Saturday, March 22 as Tiger Muay Thai and MMA Training Camp started the day off with a morning beach training session @ Nai Harn Beach.
In the afternoon, it was a TMT trainers vs guests Football game at a local school (trainers 2-1-1) came up with a 7-3 win.
In the evening we had a full BBQ Chicken and Pork, salads, and Thai food along with MMA fights, Boxing, Muay Thai, and Submission Grappling as entertainment for our guests.
We hope everyone enjoyed the party and Thanks from TMT for showing your support.
Andreas with his outstanding work ethic and training regimen is a force to be reckoned with on an off the mat in the cage or in the ring. Andreas is asst. Instructor under Magical Ray Elbe in the Tiger Muay Thai and MMA Training Camp MMA program. Magical Ray hands out a "Fighter of the week award" each week to a diffrent guest / fighter that has shown good effort in training, learned new MMA and BJJ skills and completes each training session.
Congratulations to Andreas for wining the award the first week.
Despite facing a fighter with 120+ fights Robin continued his domination and brought his wins and KO record to 3-0 with a win over Muay Thai fighter from Krabi, Thailand at Patong Stadium, March 20, 2008.
Robin is a tall fighter giving him an advantage, but for only his 3rd Muay Thai fight Robin (Sweden) dominated the veteran Thai fighter and will now be looking to head to Bangkok with other Team MMA Thailand fighters (Tiger Muay Tai) for a S-1 battle at One Songchai Stadium. If Robin continues his improvement under the guidance of head trainer, Kru Robert, Robin will begin looking for fights at Rajadamnoen Stadium, Lumpinee Stadium, and Bangkok TV.
More than 60 guests along with the full crew of TMT fighters, trainers, and staff showed up for our traditional Muay Thai Day Blessing and Buddhist ceremony on Monday morning, March 17, 2008.
Nine Buddhist Monks from the Wat Dtai Temple in Chalong including the abbot or senior monk, blessed Tiger Muay Thai camp, our fighters, trainers, and guests in what is known as the "string and water" ceremony or in Thai " "Sai sin and Gwat nahm" blessing. The head abbot was very kind and took group photos and individual pictures while talking with TMT guests at the camp. After the monks had eaten, we all sat down as a camp and ate breakfast together.
Tiger Muay Thai staff, trainers, and fighters would like to Thank all of our guests for taking the time to join in this traditional Muay Thai blessing and joining the cultural activities we plan at the camp.
TMT Phuket wants to give a special Thanks and farewell to guest, Laura McNamara who has been training at the camp the last five weeks and training hard in the advanced ring. Laura is a professional photographer and took some really great fight and Muay Thai Day photos for us.
Laura will be back at TMT in November - December 2008 with her camera for some more hardcore training and photography.
In a Phuket training camp vs training camp fight, Ritt proved too much too handle as he KO'ed the rival Rawai fighter with a hard left hook to the body followed by a crashing left hook to the head. It was an exciting fight in the first round as each fighter handed out good shots making for an exciting fight. In the 2nd round, Ritt took control and went downstairs to the body with a hard left hook that backed up the Rawai fighter into the ropes before Ritt's combination sent him to the canvas for the count.
It was an exciting night of fights for Tiger Muay Thai as two of our best trainers, Noppadech and Prathet headlined the fight card at Bangla Stadium, Phuket, Thailand on March 14, 2008.
Noppadech easily won the Bangla Title out pointing his Thai opponent from Bangkok. TMT is looking to send Noppadech for fights in Singapore, Hong Kong, and Macau in the near future along with several other TMT fighters.
Prathet battered his opponent for 5-rounds winning the battle of boxing, but losing the battle of knees and the fights based on Muay Thai scoring system. Several guests came to me after the fight and said they thought Prathet won easily as he almost Ko'ed his opponent a couple times with his boxing skills, but in the 4th and 5th rounds, the most important rounds in a Muay thai fight, Prathet was caught in clinch and unable to get off his power shots with his hands and lost a close decision in a exciting hardcore Muay Thai fight.
Tiger Muay Thai and MMA Training Camp will hold a special Buddhist ceremony to bless the camp and fighters / trainers on what is considered Muay Thai day in honor of Nai Khanom Thom "The Father of Muay Thai". The Thai legend and history hold that March 17 is the day that Nai Khanom Thom defeated 10 Burmese fighters to gain his freedom and return to Siam as a hero of his people.
Guests are invited to join in the ceremony with the Monks from wat Chalong Temple and experience an important part of Thai culture as it relates to Muay Thai. When the ceremony is finished, we all eat breakfast together at camp.
Ritt was the lone bright spot in a night of hard fights for TMT fighters as Laura and Robert lost in the 3rd round, Li'l Robert lost on points for first time in 7 fights, but Ritt saved the evening with a nice elbow KO over his taller opponent.
It was an exciting night of fights with an MMA fight as the main event at Patong Stadium as Jonus (Sweden) took on Hutch (Canada) in the best light-heavyweight MMA match-up in Thailand. It was the Canadian Olympic Wrestling candidate, Hutch against Sweden's Jonus, a striker / grappler that has been training at Tiger Muay Thai for last 5 months.
Hutch looked to have the advantage early taking Jonus to the mat, but after getting stood up, Jonus landed a high hard kick to Hutch's head setting up a big uppercut that dropped the Canadian to the canvas. Hutch looked for the quick take-down and gain his composure but Jonus landed a solid shot to the temple before referee Wade Henderson had seen enough and stopped the fight at nearly 2:00 of the first round. Fantastic fight that brought the crowd to their feet as the main event.
Earlier in the evening, Wade Henderson, Team MMA Thailand fighter, had problems finding a worth opponent at 75 kilo before a veteran Muay Thai fighter with 200+ fights stepped up to the challenge. Wade took his time and fought to his strengths wearing down the Thai with his hands before going downstairs and landing some viscous leg kicks that forced the referee to stop the fight in the 2nd round. Wade is now looking at a rematch against Saenthorn (Former Muay Thai Lumpinee Champion) for the Patong Championship.
It was a night of highs and lows. The high on the evening of March 4, 2008 was the head kick by Alan Harvey that sent his Thai opponent to the canvas just 30 seconds into the fight.
The lows were seeing Neung, his heart not in the fight as he worried about his mother being told she had suffered a heat attack just hours before his fight. Like a warrior, Neung kept his word and fought his opponent, but his heart and mind were with his mother in North Thailand. The referee stopped the fight in the 4th round and Neung immediately left for his home to be by his mother's side at the hospital. We wish Neung and his family all the best and hope she has a quick recovery.
Samart is finding it hard to find fights to his ability now that he has left Bangkok and come to Phuket. In an attempt to promote fights here in Phuket, samart took on heavyweight veteran fighter with 20+ KG on samart. samart hit the heavyweight with everything he had but lost a split decision on the referee's cards.
Check out Tiger Muay Thai's Trainer of the month for March 2008.
The following is an interview conducted with fighter guest Alan Harvey of Canada. Alan has been a fantastic guest committed to enjoying , life, TMT, and his experience in Thailand.
1. What brought you to TMT and why?
I am an oldish man right now at 35 but ever since I was 15, I have had a dream of learning Thai boxing in Thailand. Ottawa is not the hot bed of real Thai boxing there are a few clubs but they're product in my now more informed opinion is not what i was looking for) . I however, have been too busy doing nothing or too scared to try , but life and reality is catching up to me , things like a family and a real job, so I started to believe that I could actually do something like this before I died or became too bitter . I found out about Tiger Muay Thai on a martial arts chat room called mma.tv (any one who enjoys martial arts of any kind should check out this web site), i am interested in mixed martial arts as well so when i discovered Tiger Muay Thais' web site I was a happy little boy, Muay Thai for all levels and a grappling program , that and the fact its located some where called "Phuck It"' I was quite excited . the message board helped answer any questions that the web site had left blank in my strange brain , my questions were answered promptly and professionally furthering my want to deal and give theses good people my money , i have not been disappointed or left wanting in any way .
2. You have trained both MMA and Muay Thai. You are getting ready for your first MT fight? What inspires you to be a true MMA fighter and fight each individual style?
I am silly enough to test what i have learned in a ring against a real Thai fighter . Thai boxing is an art, a sport, a way of life, a war, a gamble , and any thing can happen inside that ring and the rules are barely discernable from one fight to the next .I am not silly i am also stupid , however i believe i am ready and my trainers here would not let me fight someone who could seriously damage me , but once again any thing is possible for 5 rounds of 3 minutes each . just listening to the music can kill you , I'm going to have to keep my hands up and my mind ( what little i have) on high alert . I want to pay homage to my trainers and the people of Thailand by giving back a little of myself be it blood sweat or tears for the time and learning I have been honored to receive here in the kind kingdom of Thailand .
3. Your thoughts on training with Magical ray and MMA program?
What can I say about Magical Ray Elbe and MMA here at Tiger Muay Thai ......... well only good things but I will steal or rather reuse something i have already posted on the internet somewhere else ......
I will hijack my own thread to say that ray elbe is a wonderful human being . he has also made me believe in and enjoy BJJ . He has a comprehensive no gi approach that totally lends itself to dealing with all mma situations . he lives in sunny sinful Thailand . i recommend Tiger Muay Thai and MMA in Phuket to any one who wants a simple vacation to an elite fighter wanting to get better , train hard and get a tan . ray can definitely help fine tune your grappling and MMA game but there are also 16 plus Thai trainers to choose from . ( sorry about the commercial / love note ! however if you are man enough to hang out here and not fall into the craziness, this place is freaking awesome.ummm.......................................... tigermuaythai.com.
4. How was your experience in going to Beijing and fighting in art of war?
I was fortunate enough to be invited to the art of of war promotion in Beijing , going there was like a vacation away from my vacation the price of the ticket was a few good punches in the head and a little disappointment when i let my opponent arm bar me for no real good reason besides i guess being better then me . the experience as a whole was really quite nice . i got fed for free for a whole week , got a tour guide to take me around saw Tienemen square and the forbidden city a a bunch of the Olympic venues before any one else will , the fight seems secondary in my mind and not just because i lost , i think winning wouldn't have changed my opinion except giving me a bigger smile . the promotion itself was top notch and i do appreciate being involved , the art of war team is dedicated to putting on a the best possible mixed martial arts show in Asia now that pride is defunct , they took care of all our wants and needs , , none of this would have been possible without Tiger Muay Thai so id say Thank you thank you thank you to Will and Ray and two, thank you to MMA China and the Art of War staff for letting me visit there fair city .
5. Who is the trainer that has helped you prepare the most for your upcoming MT fight?
I cant say enough good things about any of the trainers at TMT , my journey from ring 1 to 3 has been filled with learning respect and friendship . I believe they taught me what i needed to know before they moved me along and even though i may not be under they're direct guidance they always are polite . If they have any pointers or things they see you still need help with and i will always be needing help I am happy to receive it from any of the kind trainers at Tiger Muay Thai , for my fight in china kroo Kay and kroo Ngoo held pads and pushed me past my laziness ( not to forget ray and wade ) always having a smile for me after kicking or punching me or screaming at me to go the little bit extra cause i deserved it . for my Muay Thai fight kroo Neung and kroo Prathtet have been invaluable , they are beating me up without leaving any lasting damage , showing me tricks and drilling the basics over and over again . i do believe they want me to win or at least be as ready as Impossibly can( with my limited Muay Thai vocabulary), they have my well being at heart and have definitely taken the time to care and share with me beyond the boundary of compassion . whatever happens i am willing to be happy at the end of my 5 rounds of craziness .
6. What is your previous experience in Martial Arts?
Lets see I am mostly a grappler , I wrestled for 8 years starting in grade 8 , did judo for a long enough to get a brown belt , did some karate and taught Sambo for 4 years , I've also dabbled in Kung-fu , Aikido and some stick and knife fighting silliness .
7. What have you enjoyed most about your stay at TMT?
What have I enjoyed about my time at Tiger Muay Thai? ,I haven't a bad thing to say and i have been left wanting for nothing . As I said before a win in China would have been nice but that was up to me , I wouldn't mind winning at Bangla either but once again that is up too whatever spark of desire that is inside me . TMT , is a wonderful place that has taught me more then i can ever hope to absorb or learn , my only regret is not coming here sooner , please don't let your wants and dreams slip away , we are only given so many days on this planet use them the best you can , and if being a better Thai boxer or mixed martial artist then save your pennies and come run swim fly to Phuket , these kind fair people know what they are doing .
8. Do you have plans to continue fighting? What styles?
Plans you ask? , I do believe I have a little bit of fight in me , I'd like to say I should save up my luck for if and when I really need it but since I am in the best shape "I've been in for ten years I should not waste these last 5 months so perhaps i will fight another MMA fight in Canada and see if I can pull off a win or three , I have no grand plans of being champion of the world but if i can stay healthy and share what I've been learning with younger more motivated fighters/people then darnit I will learn and impart what i can with them . Turning 35 does however put me in the masters division in judo so i just might go back to good old safe judo and try to do something interesting there . we will see after tomorrow if i am the real Thai boxer I have always dreamed i could be i do however have no Lumpinee aspirations.
9. What do you think of Muay thai and Phuket, Thai culture?
TMT stands for Tiger Muay Thai but another acronym could be too much Thailand , my first month here i almost believed it , I was a little overwhelmed , now however I could move here , Phuket is a little touristy but it is a tropical paradise. much nicer then Bangkok which I can only deal with in 2 or 3 day chunks , I also visited Ubon Ratchathani for 3 weeks , it was beautiful a little cheaper but a lot more rustic very nice but much slower paced , my long hair is brown but Phuket is just right , the Thai people and they're culture is endearing , they are a peaceful people who have a long tradition of living life as they do , i believe they put up with us ting tong Farangs because we throw money at them for stuff we are too stupid to not abuse and waste in our own countries . It would make me a lot happier if more visitors took time to learn the taboos and politeness of the place they are visiting but then again what do white people care we are only here for 2 weeks then gone why should we care about the repercussions of our actions , we are better then these strange backwards people .NOT i would like to thank and apologize to the good kind people of Thailand for letting me live and experience all i could and have here in Thailand , please excuse me if i did any thing wrong and i hope i can visit again before another 15 years pass me by , korp khun kup mak mak .
10. What does it take to be a all-around good fighter ?
To be an all around good fighter , hmmmm , conditioning , conditioning , conditioning , the proper basics and attributes( ie proper technique dammit) to be fueled by your superb conditioning an ability to continually learn and evolve the determination to never quit and the stupid resolve to punch your opponent more then they punch you , to kick them more then they kick you and to push a little further then your opponent is pushing you . so besides being happy to get battered and abused CONDITIONING .CONDITIONING AND A WHOLE LOT MORE CONDITIONING .
Thanks to Alan Harvey for taking the time to make this interview and give his opinion on his stay in Thailand, TMT, Muay Thai and the culture of the Kingdom.
Undefeated for the evening and all three wins coming in the 2nd round as Ritt, Mee, and Marko win their fights at Patong Muay Thai stadium on February 21, 2008.
Ritt captured the Patong Light-weight title over his taller and more experienced stadium champion. Ritt took some hard shots but kept moving forward and kept to his game plan to score the KO by setting up his shots with his hands.
Marko won his 2nd fight in-a-row after winning just 10 days ago in a 2nd round KO @ Hua Hin Stadium. Marko is looking for a shot at Lumpinee Stadium.
Nazee was supposed to be a corner man but answered the call on short notice and fought alongside Neung as TMT fighters fought on Phi Phi Island on February 18, 2008.
Nazee fought a hard 5-rounds losing a decision on points. Neung scored a KO bringing his record to 4-0 as a TMT fighter. I will post more info and pictures when available and fighters return from Phi Phi Island.
TMT: Can you give us a description of your your first year in Thailand and here @ TMT Phuket?
I have had a great first year being associated with Tiger Muay Thai. We have grown as a family. I have continued to grow as a professional, expanding my fight endeavors to include Thailand's national sport of Muay Thai. Cultural differences have really allowed me to mature as an individual. One of the unique characteristics of Tiger Muay Thai is the opportunity to experience people from all over the world. Phuket Thailand is the crown jewel of Asia. Tourist and fighters travel from all corners of the world to experience the training at TMT. I have continued to expand my international contacts establishing relationships in China, Russia, Costa Rica, Sweden,Australia, Canada, and just about any other country where professional fighting exists.
TMT:What were your goals when brought in to run MMA Program?
Magical Ray:I was really apprehensive about establishing goals before my arrival. I had never experienced Thailand, and was uncertain as to what I could expect. When I arrived TMT was in the process of re-tooling the MMA program. Will has dedicated himself to expanding the sport of Mixed Martial Arts and showed his commitment by constructing a new multi-purpose training facility solely for the use of the MMA program. He imported an American manufactured MMA cage, expanded the mat space, and has continued to upgrade the weight training equipment. These advances have allowed us to become the largest training facility in the country. Under my instruction we won the SouthEast Asian Grappling games (taking 24 medals), we've also headlined several international fight cards including Russia's Draka and China's Art Of War promotions. The program has really started generating international attention, attracting UFC stars Jess Liaudin, Bobby Southworth, Mike Swick, and dozens of up and coming fighters from around the world.
TMT: What goals have you met in your first year at Tiger Muay Thai and MMA Training Camp?
Magical Ray:Looking at the program from the first day I arrived in Phuket and comparing it to where we are today shows the amount of growth the program has achieved. Continuing to promote MMA, Tiger Muay Thai successfully achieved many noteworthy accomplishments. Watching Ngoo face another Thai, becoming the first ever Thai Vs. Thai MMA bout held within the country was exciting. Witnessing the historic first Female MMA bout, and continuing to expand Mixed Martial Arts fighting to neighboring islands has really established TMT as the leading pioneer of the sport.
TMT:What do you see for future of MMA Program, Team MMA Phuket?
Magical Ray:The next step in continued growth of the program is going to involve promoting more MMA events. We have a solid foundation of fighters living and training full time at the facility. With continued networking we have established relationships with several other gyms within the country including; Ole Laursen's Legacy Gym in Ubon, and the Bangkok Fight Club in BKK. Witnessing our fighters compete internationally really drove home the need to have opportunities for them to compete locally. Many of the guys in Thailand are lacking MMA fight experience because of the limited number of MMA fights the country currently has to offer. I would like to see us expand on our relationships; hosting more seminars, conducting "smoker" matches, and continuing to promote regular MMA bouts. Providing our fighters with more opportunities to compete locally will increase our success when we headline international fight cards. All of my fighters have really improved during their training duration at TMT. Look at the results and they speak for themselves. Wade Henderson won a Superfight for the Battle in Bali promotion, then returned back to Phuket to capture the Bangla Stadium Superfight title in Muay Thai. Andreas Hesselback continued training after his disappointing performance against undefeated champion Franscino Tirta to dominate Allan Bernstein in his recent MMA fight in Koh Lanta. Allan Harvey (a fighter with an 0-2 MMA record) took the top chinese MMA fighter in his weight class to a tough 2nd round loss in Art of War- Beijing China (first round was 10 minutes with the old pride rules allowing knees to the head on the ground and soccer kicks). The program is going to continue to improve, and the fighters performance is going to be expected to mirror that. I push all my guys extremely hard, but the victories are all the incentive they need.
TMT:What has TMT done, Muay Thai wise, to help your striking game? Trainers you like. Strengths and particulars?
Magical Ray:Tiger Muay Thai's training has allowed me to become more confident in my striking abilities. Competing in Muay Thai i've gone 3-0 with 3ko's against more experienced Thai fighters. That has allowed me to have more confidence in my MMA striking. My recent victory in Russia proves that I'm no longer a one dimensional grappler competing in MMA. (Won that fight via 1st round KO) I have really enjoyed working with all of the trainers the camp has to offer. With 18 different trainers the program really provides a fighter the ability to pick and chose fighters who have styles similar to their personal attributes. Prior to Sao Hin moving to Vegas, to teach at Master Toddy's gym, I worked regularly with him on my boxing. Yod has provided me with essential Muay Thai clench techniques, while Phatet has really polished my overall kicking strategies. Working closely with Ngoo in the MMA program has given me an opportunity to experience Muay Thai with a trainer who also competes in MMA, which is a unique opportunity many of the other trainers are unable to relate to. I like Tiger Muay Thai's commitment to excellence. Other gym's in Thailand that don't offer as many trainers might keep someone around who isn't necessarily "a quality" instructor. Since TMT has a large staff we are able to replace trainers who aren't worth keeping, which provides us with the best trainers available. I would put our advance ring of trainers against any other gym in Thailand, as far as attention paid to the fighter, technique taught, and structure of the program I feel we could perform against any of the gyms in Bangkok.
TMT:What do you see for future of MMA in Thailand and TMT leading the way?
Magical Ray:Obviously the forest fire known as MMA is going to continue to grow. With satellite television many of the local night spots are regularly showing UFC events, and the Thai community is really starting to show an interest. The MMA fights that we have been promoting have really shown a ton of interest and promoters are begging us for more fights. With continued expansion more fight opportunities are going to present themselves and Tiger Muay Thai is going to be right their every step of the way.
TMT:What do you see for your personal fight career?
Magical Ray:I think I can compete in whatever combative sport I chose. I don't want to rush my Muay Thai career, I am a great grappler with good MMA striking, and would like to continue developing my Muay Thai skills. I think with continued training I could compete at a high level in MT. I'm still working on obtaining my BJJ Black Belt, and want to compete in both grappling and MMA while living abroad. I'd like to find more opportunities to compete in China, India, and Japan. Eventually I will be fighting in the UFC, so until that opportunity presents itself, I'm just trying to become the most complete fighter I can. Everyday I just want to get better.
TMT:People you would like to bring in this year to enhance the MMA program at Tiger Muay Thai and MMA?
Magical Ray:Being a Purple Belt from the Lotus Club Jiu Jitsu team, I'd love to bring 2nd degree Black Belt Juliano Prado out for a seminar. Giva Santana is another Lotus Club BB who competes for Pro Elite, he is currently 9-0 and has been showcased on Showtime several times. I have many UFC contacts and am positive several of those people will be training at Tiger Muay Thai during their training trips to Thailand.
TMT Phuket will have a day of training and fun on Saturday, February 16, 2008 as morning training will be held at Nai Harn Beach and will include a nice beach run on the white sands of Nai Harn, Muay Thai pad training, and group training and games like tug-of-war.
In the afternoon, it will be the Tiger Muay Thai trainers vs guests in a football game at Ban Chalong School close to the camp. The TMT trainers are looking for a win after going 0-1-1 in last (2) two games with the guests.
In the evening, TMT guest, Simon and friends will be sponsoring a TMT BBQ and party including exhibition fights, bonfire, and for fun, "drunken Thai boxing" which guests spar with blindfolds.
Welcome to all the guests and friends of the camp for a fun filled night on saturday evening. Please contact the front desk or guest relations for tickets to the BBQ and the daily schedule.
It was the best fight of Tiger Muay Thai trainer Don's young career as his 40,000 Baht rematch with Singha was a war. Don, stopped by the referee in the last fight after (4) four rounds, finished what he started in the last fight with a solid points win over the veteran Muay Thai fighter on february 12, 2008.
Don looked good as he used video of his last fight to determine Singha's weakness and where he could improve himself. Training hard with head trainer Nazee, Don looked great in his fight as he dominated the money round (4th) and the 5th round to claim his victory and the largest fight purse of his career along with the Bangla Muay Thai stadium title @ 68 Kilo. Check out the Video on you tube and photos of the fight.
In the 2nd fight of the evening, Ngoo took on one of the best fighters in his class and went (5) five hard rounds. The fight was back and forth with each fighter scoring points. Ngoo scored with a big elbow in the 3rd round almost winning by KO and opening a 3 centimeter cut over his opponents eye, however it seemed Ngoo had the fight won along with the crowd and Thai gamblers only to lose the split decision to the disappointment of the crowd which loves Ngoo's traditional Muay Thai techniques and always moving forward style of attack. Check out the You Tube Video and photos.
It was a night of charity and fights for the Sainamyen School in Patong as TMT fighters, Jonathan (Sweden) and Tiger Muay Thai trainer,Samart, fought on February 9, 2008.
Results: Jonathan injures shoulder and referee stops fight in the 1st round. Jonathan was dominating the fight and already had knocked his opponent down when he threw a hard overhand right and separated his shoulder.
Samart won a hard fought 5-round decision on points over veteran Muay Thai fighter.
Thanks for all our guests that came out to support the Charity event and fund raiser for Sainamyen School.
A KO and 3 points wins rounded out the evening as TMT goes 4-0 at Bangla Muay Thai Stadium, Phuket, Thailand, February 8, 2008. Tiger Muay Thai & MMA Assistant Instructor, Wade henderson captured the light-heavyweight Muay Thai title @ Bangla with a 4th round KO. Nopadech, Li'l Robert, and Ritt all won their fights on points over 5-rounds. Attending ringside was TMT VIP guest, Mike Swick of Ultimate Fighter TV Series #1 and veteran Cage and UFC fighter.
It was a night of exciting Muay Thai fights and Kru Ritt even showed the crowd his agility as he did a back flip in the ring after his win.
Former Lumpinee Champion and Tiger Muay Thai trainer, Nopadech made easy work of his Southern Thai opponent for his first win for TMT.
Thanks to all the Tiger Muay Thai guests and friends of the training camp that came out and voiced their support for our fighters.
UFC contender and former Ultimate fighter, Mike Swick will be conducting (2) two days of seminars at TMT Phuket for guests in the MMA training program. Swick is a UFC veteran and former participant of the the reality TV show "The Ultimate Fighter." Mike will be at the camp for a couple days conducting seminars, answering questions, taking pictures, and signing autographs. Check out seminars with Wade and Andreas on the mats during the afternoon sessions on February 7 and 8, 2008.
Ritt is one of our most popular trainers at Tiger Muay Thai and MMA training camp. Ritt is also friendly and loves to joke. Ritt stays busy giving private lessons and fights every 3-4 weeks in different parts of Thailand like Patong, Phuket, Kao Lak, Ko Lanta, Ko Phi Phi, and more. Ritts has trained since he was seven-years-old starting at the respected Tawneekhun gym.....more story
It was a night of exciting fights with some really great fighters on the card including Robert and Marco from Tiger Muay Thai. Also fighting at the event (16 fights in all in one night) was Sirimongkon (Former World Champion) and Current Bangkok TV Champion Naruenphat.
Several fights were "called quickly with fighters ahead or behind on points and a few rounds were cut short as so many fights starting so late made for a very late evening. Marco's fight was called in the 3rd round by referee calling for more action. There was a feeling of the fighter's being rushed.
Robert's fights was one of the best of the evening. Robert trained hard and cut weight (5 kilo) to make this fight. He dominated the rematch winning on points.
Tiger Muay Thai wants to say thanks to guests and patrons Sharon and Phil Lamb from England. Patrons and supporters of TMT, Sharon and Phil spend a month each year at the camp training and having fun. While time goes far too quickly while you are having fun, all your friends here at TMT wish you a great new year and look forward to seeing you again.
A lot of guests have come and gone since Marko first arrived at the camp a little more than (1) one-year-ago. Like the many guests have changed so has Marko developed into a serious fighter in MMA and Muay Thai.
TMT conducted a recent interview with Marko on what it is like to experience staying and training for the last year at Tiger Muay Thai, his upcoming fight on January 2nd, and a future fight at Lumpinee stadium.
TMT: Give us a little background on yourself.
Marko: My name is Marko Huusansaari. I am 28-years-old and from Finland. I sorry if my English is not so perfect.
TMT: First off, you have to talk about your weight-loss and physique change over the last year. How much weight have you lost? What is your current fighting weight?
Marko: I have lost about 18-20 kilogram training. My fight at 72 kg.
TMT: What do you credit for the change in weight-loss and overall physique change?
Marko: Training everyday and not stopping. I get stronger than before and lose weight. I train with Prathet and Ray (Magical Ray Elbe) and they push me to get better.
TMT: You are a member of Team MMA Phuket. What is your record, and which do you prefer, MMA or Muay Thai?
Marko: I am 4-0 in Muay Thai and 1-1 in MMA. I like both. I really enjoy training with Ray Elbe that is why I have trained MMA. I like Muay Thai and Tiger (Muay Thai) make me as a fighter.
TMT: What is it you like about training with Ray (Elbe) and Prathet?
Marko: Ray is good teacher. he show me technical side of training I never have. And how hard he trains. The MMA training is very hard you know. Ray pushes me and everyone to reach better. Prathet is good Muay Thai trainer. I have trained many Thai trainer and Prathet is so good with pads. Go 3 minutes and not stop. One technique on top of another. I like him much. I also like Saohin. We all miss him at Tiger (Muay Thai).
TMT: Have you done anything different to prepare for your upcoming Muay Thai fights?
Marko: I have worked hard on my cardio and stamina. I know I am stepping up to the next level. I am ready. Let's do it!
TMT: After your fight for Channel 7 Thai TV, what are your thoughts on fighting at Bangkok's historical Lumpinee stadium?
Marko: I feel I want to test myself. I have not lost at Muay Thai and I want each opponent to be better than my last. Yes. It is about test myself. I want to fight Lumpinee because this is home for Muay Thai. I like this. I know I will be facing a highly experienced fighter from Bangkok, and I am not afraid to lose because I will gain from the experience.
Ritchie and Ngoo stole the show with nice KO's, but Don showed a ton of heart in his fight against Singha. Don, with 10 fights under his belt was in against a proven Muay Thai veteran in Singha. The referee stopped the fight in the 4th, as Don was out-pointed by the veteran. But in the 1st and 3rd rounds Don lands some solid shots and look as if he might KO the veteran, but he is not quite there. Nice fight, Though.
Ritchie was powerhouse with western-style boxing being his background and learning Muay Thai for the first time. He stunned his Thai opponent with hard shots with his hands. Finally scoring a mixed combination KO.
Ngoo, looking for the "spinning elbow" KO landed a hard straight elbow just after that opened up his Thai opponent and the referee stopped the fight.
Tiger Muay Thai guest, Danny Carter, trained and competed in his first Muay Thai fight on January 23, 2008 @ Bangla Stadium, Phuket, Thailand.
Danny was a powerhouse from the moment the bell rang, but it was 12 weeks of hardcore training, day in and day out at the muay thai training camp that made Danny ready for his fight. So special Thanks goes out from Danny to Kru Robert, who prepared him and gym personalities, Cori and "Shifty."
Danny was interviewed by Canadian Radio 590 about his time at the camp, preparing for the fight with the trainers, and entering the ring for the first time. Really Nice Interview:
Ritt and Samart both scored KO's in 2nd round and Moo, returning to the ring after a long absence, wins a hard fought classic Muay Thai fight in front of the nice crowd at the new Kao Lak Boxing Stadium. Mee, one of our younger fighters, was stopped in 4th round by referee down on points.
Special Thanks to staff-coordinator, Jeab, who did a great job taking the guests around to the beaches and waterfalls and organizing the event for the fighters and guests. Also Thanks to TMT fighter Em for working the corner in Kao Lak for our TMT fighters.
Trip Slideshow by Guest Danny Baci
Tiger Muay Thai guests and Muay Thai trainer / fighters, Ritt, Samart,and Moo headed to Kao Lak (Just off Phuket island in the Phang Nga Province.) TMT guests will visit some private and quiet beaches and waterfalls in the Kao Lak area, The Tiger Buddhist Temple, and ancient Buddhist caves and then have a picnic lunch at Pakwib Beach. On the night of January 25, TMT fighters will compete at Kao Lak stadium and will spend the night in bungalows and come home the next day.
American Kick boxing Academy BJJ Black Belt Bobby Southworth will be holding free seminars on MMA Grappling / Fighting on January 24-25 at Training camp from 4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.
TMT guests are welcome to join in, take pictures with Bobby and get autographs. Bobby is a veteran of the original TUF #1 "The Ultimate Fighter" cast member and veteran fighter in UFC, Strikeforce , and Pride.
TMT welcomes Bobby to TMT and Thanks Bobby's Sponsor gym American Kick boxing Academy.
It was a night of fun for Tiger Muay Thai guests and trainers gathered together for a night of fun for TMT guests, Sarah McDonnell's Birthday Party.It all happened on the spur of the moment and ended up with a nice BBQ and as guests were treated to Thai-style blindfold boxing matches with Marvin vs Dave and Gordo vs Jorge, all the guests and trainers that came that came had a wonderful time. And of Course....HAPPY BIRTHDAY SARAH!!!!!
And the KO's keep coming as last night @ Bangla Muay Thai Stadium, Phuket, Thailand, all three (3) Tiger Muay Thai fighters scored KO wins.
Fighting Muay Thai for the first time, guest fighters, Daniel and Joe each scored 1st and 3rd round KO's and looked good while doing it. Both Joe and Daniel trained to fight and each used the Muay Thai techniques they worked two-times everyday in training. Great Knees and elbow defense. Nice attacking low then attacking high. Good combinations with their punching.
While Robin, fighting for the 2nd time in a month scored a 2nd round KO. Robin has made serious improvement and wanting bigger fights and now promoters are looking at him for fights in Bangkok and other southern cities in Thailand.
Pics and video soon
After training hard for 1+ month, Nick scored a 2nd round KO of Phuket Muay Thai fighter, Jingla. Nick worked well with his hands and showed definite improvement in his clinch. Midway through the 2nd round, Nick pushed down his opponents head and delivered a crushing elbow to the back of his skull downing the fighter for the count.
Tiger Muay Thai welcomes MMA professional fighter and BJJ Black Belt, Bobby Southworth to our training camp as he prepares for his upcoming fight in February.
Bobby is looking to use Muay Thai to drop weight, work on his conditioning in preparation for his upcoming MMA fight. Bobby is an original cast member and fighter in the "The Ultimate Fighter" television series sponsored by UFC.
Tiger Muay Thai will have an overnight trip to Kao lak,Thailand. The trip will include a tour van trip to Kao Lak, one-night in A/C Bungalow, lunch at private beach to relax, and fight ticket to Kao Lak stadium to see Mee, Ritt, and Robert Lek in fights.
Please check tickets and prices / options with office staff
TMT wants to Thank Ray Elbe for donating his time for a free seminar on BJJ / MMA for Royal Thai Police and Tourist police volunteers on Sunday, January 20, 2008. Ray enjoyed working with the police and showing them modern techniques to disarm and choke holds for various situations. TMT wants to Thank the Royal Thai Police and Phuket Tourist Police and Volunteers for helping make Phuket a safe and secure place for tourists to visit and enjoy the beauty of Phuket.
For those of you who have missed Johnny K. the last few days, Johnny had to go to the hospital for an emergency appendectomy surgery. All is well now after a few days at Phuket International Hospital. Johnny should recover quickly within a couple weeks and be back training soon.
Get Well soon
From all your friends at TMT
Another close fight of Muay Thai in patong as Tiger Muay Thai fighters Philip (Canada) and MEE were on the fight card on January 20, 2008.
Philip lost a close points decision to his Thai opponent. While Philip dominated with his hands, the Tai was able to score points with kicks and clinch that edged out the win. (Video and Pics soon)
It is a sad day for Tiger Muay Thai as head trainer Yod will be gone to his home in Surin to take care of the details of the death of his father.
Yod learned of his father's sickness and rushed home to be at his side just 2 days ago. He will need some time away from TMT to take care of the Thai funeral details and some time for mourning.
Yod was one of the first trainers at TMT along with Phet and Nazee. My heart goes out to him in his time of sadness and grief.
Yod has a family here at Tiger Muay Thai and we wish him our sincere condolences and best wishes for his family during their time of mourning.
If any guests and friends of Yod would like to leave a special message, I will be happy to print and give to Kru Yod on his return.
What an exciting night of fights at Bangla Stadium.
TMT went 2-2 for the night but all 4 fights were the best fights of the night.
Veronika defends against strong clinch of opponent, Nongann
Veronika was dethroned of her title by Nongann in a great fight. Veronika lit up NongAnn's face with superior hand skills, but Nongann's clinch and knees to the body edged her out the win even after Veronika dominated the 5th and most important round. After the fight Veronika comes by and says " Sorry about the loss." Nothing to be sorry about. Veronika fought her heart out against a quality opponent, held her own and made her trainers and gym proud.
Considering Veronika's last 10 fights and a 9-1 record with 6 first round KO's, it is TMT that will be sorry to see Veronika leave in February and head back to her home in Norway. TMT will do what it can to bring Veronika back until she wants to fight no more.
Currently, Veronika is the subject of a Magazine article and photo spread for European publication and TMT is looking at a documentary on Veronika later this year for Euro TV on what it takes for a female to come and live, train, and fight Muay Thai in Thailand.
Ritt's fight was the "Fight of the Night." Ritt gave 150% in the ring and went strike for strike against a quality French fighter with Rajadamnoen experience and had a height and slight weight advantage on Ritt.
Despite the loss, it was the foreigner who left the ring feeling the affects of Ritt's numerous leg kicks to the body that left his French opponent with his side the same color as his red shorts and turning bright purple. Even above the roar of the excited crowd, you could hear the "SMACK" when Ritt tore shots into the Frenchman's side. Ritt lost on scorecard but won the crowd that was disappointed with the decision seeing the smaller Ritt go blow for blow with the foreigner.Win some.....lose some. Either way, a great Muay Thai fight.
Robert Lek made quick work of his opponent with his speed out pointing his Thai rival that by the 3rd round the referee had seen enough as the Patong Gym fighter was completely defensive and absorbing everything Robert Lek threw at him.
The last fight of the night saw Samart take on Muslim Krabi fighter that decided he wanted to make it personal with late shots after the bell and trying to instigate bad blood. Unfortunately for him that is what he found. Samart had put up with enough by the 3rd round and you could tell by the smile on his face. Trading elbows, Samart stepped back, pushed away his opponents face and landed a powerful leg kick to the side of the head of his opponent knocking out the Krabi, Thailand fighter and sending the Dr. to the ring to try and wake him up with smelling salts.
All in all, a great night of Muay Thai if you like watching exciting Muay Thai action in the ring. Our guests know, when TMT steps in the ring, get ready for some serious Muay Thai.
It was a mixed emotion evening as Magical Ray Elbe started the night off sweet with a nice 2bd round KO over circuit fighter, Naddum. Ray really showed he has some Muay Thai skills in his MMA arsenal as he didn't hesitate to throw a spinning elbow and two jumping knees, and even a spinning back-fist. 
Ray cores with high leg kick (Video)
In the end, midway through the 2nd round, Ray went to the body hard of Naddum bringing his hands down, and from the close quarter position, Ray landed a solid kick under the jaw of the Thai putting him to sleep.
On the less enjoyable part of the evening, Sornarong looks to be clearly stunned by a solid knee and left hook. After taking several more hard shots while still in the daze and looking to hold on, Neung took another hard shot and the referee called the fight a "No Contest." The Thai gamblers started yelling at Neung and didn't believe he lost to a inferior fighter. Money always finds a way to cloud an issue as does allowing gambling inside the stadiums of the national sport of Thailand. Neung has shown himself to be a good trainer and a guest favorite, besides a Thailand Muay thai Champion.
I have seen fights where a fighter has been dominated for 5 rounds and with 30 seconds left scores a viscous elbow KO.
Tiger Muay Thai was half the card at Bangla Muay Thai stadium on January 15, 2008 and came away with 3 KO wins and one loss on points.
Don added to his winning streak with a nice 2nd round elbow KO that leveled his Thai opponent who was 5 kilo heavier.
Mee started things off with a 1st round KO. Ngoo, tried to hit the spinning elbow several times before finally getting the KO in the 4th round. Three times is the charm as Ngoo's opponent asked for another rematch after his last 2 KO losses and gets KO' ed once again.
Nick (Canada) fought a good fight using the Muay Thai techniques they has been training for the last month, but the Thai fighter had the edge in weight and experience and edged out Nick on points. This unpopular decision was the aggressor for all 5 rounds and his Thai opponent played defensive most of the fight with tip kicks. Either way, this was a very close fight.
Waiting for the container to arrive from USA, TMT will be adding a new MMA training facility dedicated strictly to MMA and have 3 MMA Instructors and 2 Muay Thai fighters available everyday for training in the Mixed Martial Arts program. The Cage is courtesy of Sinister Angel Cages which provides cages for King of the Cage and other MMA events in the Midwest USA.
It was a great time on the beautiful island of Ko Lanta for TMT guests and fighters on January 14, 2008. The island's first MMA fight sponsored by Tiger Muay Thai and MMA Training Camp was a war between Allan (Guam) and Team MMA Phuket fighter, Andreas.
Phillip (Canada) was scheduled to fight but withdrew due to a foot injury. Nazee, back in Ko Lanta after last years fight lost in the 3rd round.
Guests enjoyed a Beach BBQ of crabs, shrimp, fish and some of the best beaches in Thailand before all heading out to the special Muay Thai event held outside under clear skies.
It was Robin's first Muay Thai fight in Thailand. This was a rematch for Samart against a fighter he dominated two months ago to lose after a numbing kick to his ankle...That's Muay thai, a fight can change in an instant with a elbow or knee.
Robin looked good in training with Kru Robert.100% effort during the training sessions, in sparring, on the pads, on the bags, and during cardio and C.O.R.E. training. Robin was scheduled to fight against former Bangla champion Chang Noi, but due to an accident in training, Chang Noi was replaced with a more experienced veteran Namsong with nearly 200 fights, but now a circuit fighter in South Thailand.
Robin made quick work using his size and excellent knee attacks to drop the thai fighter just 2:00 minutes into the first round.
Samart had been wanting this rematch. After dominating the last fight, he took a numbing shot to his ankle and could not stand properly to the referees instruction and lost the fight. This time out, Samart came out hard and slashed with elbow shots opening up a bad cut over his opponents ear. The fight eventually had to be stopped in 3rd round as the doctor need to almost stitch the ear back into place. Look for a future grudge match as Lak Hin is a tough fighter and will want a shot at Samart again. crowd loved this fight at Bangla.
In the on again and off again status for mourning the death of the King of Thailand's elder sister, Muay Thai fights are now allowed with a notice to keep noise levels to a respectable level.
What a night for fights in Phuket, Thailand. All three (3) TMT fighters scored KO's last night as Ritt won in the 1st round with a great body shot that drops his opponent to the canvas, Robert won his Muay Thai fight in the 4th round referee stoppage, and Li'l Robert in the 5th round decision on points. Tiger Muay Thai is a winning steak in Muay Thai and Mixed Martial Arts as we are 22-2 over our last 24 fights internationally.
Ritt's Video
Li'l Robert's Video
More info, pics, and video soon.
Call it a winning streak if you will as TMT is 16-1 is our last 17 fights. Last night, Jan 3, 2008, Tiger Muay Thai Trainer, Don and TMT guest Andrew both picked up KO wins.
Don took just 45 seconds to catch his Thai opponent with a straight short kick to the jaw that KO' ed his opponent.(Don's Muay Thai Video)
Andrew, in a tough fight for his first Muay Thai fight, looked good and followed his training and instructions well. Wearing his opponent down, Andrew came on big in the 3rd round and landed several hard shots before a high kick to the back of the neck of his Thai opponent left him in a daze. Andrew moved in and finished the fight with a hard combo dropping the Thai into the corner as the referee called the fight.
Congratulations to both fighters and TMT.
It was a fantastic night for BBQ, Exhibition fights, and Thai-style gift exchange at Tiger Muay Thai on December 29, 2007.
Thanks to all the guests that attended the BBQ, played in the soccer game, and beach morning training session with Tiger Muay Thai trainers.
Team MMA Phuket fighters Wade and Andreas returned from Bali with a 1-1 record as Wade exploded in the ring after struggling to cut weight and vented his frustration by landing a KO win.
Andreas, fighting one of the best Asian fighters in Fransino Tirta went blow for blow and almost picked up a KO, but Tirta finally got the edge and landed a hard uppercut with 15 seconds left in the first round. Andreas hit the canvas and covered up. (From the home team bench): Andreas is a smart fighter and covered up quick trying to survive the coming onslaught of punches, but the referee stepped in quick as well and ended the fight before Tirta could throw any bombs. To be fair, the referee had established early on there would be heavy protection for fighters being that this is the first MMA event to be held in Bali after their own legal battles to keep MMA legal on the small Indonesian island country.
Overall reaction was quite positive from Wade and Andreas on the organization and promotion. TMT would like to Thank all the promoters, location, and fighters from around the world including Fransino Tirta, for a great night of MMA fights on the beautiful island of Bali.
Nine Buddhist Monks from Chalong's Wat Dtai will come to the training camp on December 28 @ 10:00 a.m. for a traditional Buddhist Blessing of Tiger Muay Thai, our facility, and our new "Spirit House" or "Samprapoom."
Guests are invited to join in the traditional Buddhist ceremony and eat with the trainers and staff following the ceremony. For guests, this is a great way to experience the Buddhist and Thai culture and understand how Buddhism plays such a large role in Muay Thai.
Marco and Neung fought great fights @ Bangla stadium last night. Marco scored a surprising win over stadium champion, Chang Noi, who has been a nemesis of TMT fighters for some time. In a great fight with a lot of hard shots by both competitors, Marco took the best Chang Noi had to offer and kept on moving forward and finally scoring the 3rd KO of the stadium Champion.
This was a deserving win for Marco. Training hard everyday an losing more than 20 kilo since he started raining at TMT, Marco has shown a lot of intensity and perseverance. Marco is now 3-0 as a Muay Thai fighter fighting for Tiger Muay Thai.
Neung scored a unanimous decision over his Thai opponent from Bangkok. Neung, a former Rajadamnoen champion in Muay Thai and Boxing, easily dominated his opponent and winning easily on points by the 4th round. The referee called the 5th round short as Neung's opponent had nothing left and was too far behind on points to win.
December 26, 2007 @ 9:00 p.m.
Tiger Muay Thai fighters, Marco and Narong will fight on the Bangla Muay Thai Stadium Tsunami Memorial fight night on December 26, 2007 starting @ 9:00 p.m.
Marco has been on a tear lately as he has lost nearly 20 kilo and fought 5-times for TMT. Tonight will be his biggest challenge as he takes on Bangla Stadium Champion, Chang Noi.
Narong will be heading the main event as a former 2 time Rajadamnoen Champion and 2-Time Rajadamnoen Boxing Champion.
It was a night of 3's. TMT racked up 3-wins all knock-outs and all in round 3.Tiger Muay Thai trainers, Ngoo and Don each continued their win streaks with 3rd round KO's. TMT guest, Peter, scored a big win over the favored experienced Thai fighter from Patong
Congratulations to TMT and all the fighters. Look for pictures and video links to be posted soon.
Tiger Muay Thai and MMA Training camp and all our staff want to wish all our guests and friends of the camp a wonderful holiday season, a Merry Christmas, and a Happy New Year.
Thanks for all your support in making TMT Phuket the #1 Muay Thai and MMA Training Camp in Thailand.
TMT Phuket wants to thanks camp patron Izzy for inviting TMT guests and patrons for an afternoon sailing and swimming in the blue waters off the coast of southern Phuket island. More than 30 guests and trainers spent the afternoon sailing from Kata around the south side of the island back to Chalong Bay.
Guests feasted on a BBQ lunch and spent the afternoon swimming and diving around the boat and watching the sunset over the andaman sea.
Thanks to Izzy and all his crew for inviting us for a great day of fun and sailing.
Tiger Muay Thai wants to give a big thanks to guest Danny G. for all his hard work the last 2 months preparing for his first fight in Thailand. Danny fought an experienced Muay Thai veteran and Patong stable fighter and scored the points win after 5 hard rounds. Good job to Kru Yod who has trained Danny for the last 2 months and prepared him.
Danny G. is a Martial Arts gym owner in Costa Rica. He has spent the last two months at our training camp working on his Muay Thai skills.
First word out of China is that Alan Harvey, lost in 2nd round via submission. More details later and Alan's perspective on fight when he returns.
The first thing he said when he arrived at the training camp was, " I am here to fight." So far, nobody has proved him wrong as U.K. upcoming Muay Thai fighter, Jonny Betts trains like a demon and fights like one as well. In his first two (2) Muay Thai fights, Jonny has wracked up to KO's and looked good in the process. A student of former Lumpinee champion, Kru Kay, Jonny has taken to training with the former champion and is developing a style all his own. Jonny is part of a growing number of fighters @ the training camp "living clean" which means eating right, no drinking or smoking, and pushing your limits to set new and higher goals.
Jonny will be looking for another fight in January. Jonny also credited doing 10-minute rounds during training with giving him stamina during the fight. As part of Team MMA Phuket, Jonny is in China helping corner fellow team member Alan Harvey as he fights in Art of War 11, Beijing, China.
Congratulations Jonny and Kru Kay.
Interview By: James Franchise
Intro: Swedish MMA Fighter Andreas Hesselback is set to face Fransino Tirta December 27th in Bali, Indonesia. Tirta will be looking to build upon his 9-0-1 unbeaten record. Fransino gained international attention recently by fighting Top Chinese fighter Dai Shuang Hai in Art of War 8 to a 15 minute Draw.
Questions with Andreas Hesselback
1. Q:For the readers who don’t know about you, give us a little’ background info about yourself.
HB: I’I'm 26 years old, I’ve been training in different Martial Arts since ‘94. I started fighting Shooto style fights nearly 8 years ago while in living in Sweden. My career was put on hold in 2001, when I interested in body building. Eventually I found my way back to MMA in 04, when I faced USA-Art of War contender Klas Akesson. I lost the fight Via armbar. The loss motivated me to make changes in my training. I found new techniques, cross trained with other fighters, and eventually moved to Thailand pursuing my fighting career. I had my first “Return fight” in October when I beat UK grappler Lawrence Neele during an MMA fight held in Thailand. After beating him up on the feet and landing a high light slam, I secured the Guillotine choke early in the 2nd round.
*Video of fight*
2. Q: What do you know about Fransino Tirta?
HB: I know he is an Indonesian MMA Icon, having a perfect 9-0 record. I also know those wins came against some weak competition. I watched him struggle against another top fighter in South East Asia, Dai Shuang Hai of China. Thanks to You Tube I’ve had an opportunity to watch over an hour of grappling and MMA footage of Tirta. He is a BJJ purple belt, but doesn't’t seem to transition his ranking very well when he is forced to fight without the Gi. I think the technique he lacks in striking he compensates with his power, and warrior spirit. I am looking to turn this into a shotgun shoot- out on the feet.(Laughing) I want him to realize I’m here to take his undefeated record.
3. Q: Fransino has a ton of fight experience, do you think that will play a factor in the fight?
HB: Fight records are illusive. Fransino has experience with performing in front of the crowds and the lights, but he has never really been in a war. Most of his fights were over in the first round against opponents I could have beaten just as easily. He has never faced a fighter bigger and more powerful than him. His fight in China showed he had cardio and heart, but Dai Shuang Hai didn’t fight with the same intensity and explosiveness my style offers.
I have a lot of experience on my side as well. I’ve got professional fighters who know how to cut weight and who understand plyometric conditioning. I have an instructor who has actually competed, and knows the differences between submission grappling and fighting. Besides having fought on PPV himself, Ray has been a training partner for fighters getting ready for big UFC and PRIDE fights. I know he understands what it takes to be the best. Fransino isn’t getting to train with the same level of competition I am getting pushed by every at practice. I am getting to train with KOTC, TKO, and Cage Rage veterans. Our camp has BJJ Purple, Brown, and Black Belts visiting almost every month from various locations in the world.
4. Q: Tell us about your training leading up to this fight?
HB: At the beginning of my move to Thailand I set a goal of becoming the best fighter possible. I’ve dedicated my entire life from top to bottom with preparing myself to compete. I live a clean life. My diet is balanced, I don’t smoke or drink, and I train twice a day. This is my shot at doing what I love, in order to make this dream a reality Fransino is the next step. I know Fransino doesn’t get the opportunity to train full-time. I make sure every night when I go to bed, I know that I did the best I could for that day. One day at a time, one fight at a time, I’m training to make this a career.
5. Q: Living in Thailand do you find it difficult to find qualified MMA training partners?
HB: No, not at all. Tiger Muay Thai has a great MMA instructor who trains along side his students. Ray Elbe is a BJJ Purple Belt under Juliano Prado. He has fought some of the biggest names in MMA and has over 30 professional fights. I actually helped Ray prepare for his recent 1st round KO victory in Khabarovsk, Russia. Since returning from that victory Ray has dedicated 100% of his training attention on getting me ready for this fight. We have been reviewing video footage of Fransino, and training specifically for him. Ray is a smart guy with a ton of experience. He has trained with some of the best in the sport, and I have no doubt we are well prepared for a tough battle.
6. Q: You took 2nd place in your division at the last SEA Grappling games. The Finals match was against a teammate Allan Harvey, did you find it difficult to compete against a teammate, and do you have to listen to the guys at the gym talk smack about the loss?
HB: Knowing he was a teammate relieved a lot of the anxiety a fighter can get from competing. I still didn’t like taking home the silver medal though. (Laughing) I don’t have to listen to the guys too bad. I was satisfied with my performance. Allan is a Judo brown belt and has almost 10 years of Sambo experience. He is actually fighting in AOW 10. That match has motivated me to train harder. If you watch the end of the fight, you can see that regulation expires with me attempting a single leg takedown. If I would have just committed sooner to the takedown I would have won. That feeling makes the silver medal motivate me that much more.
7. Q: Battle in Bali is going to be 3 rounds of 5 minutes. The Rules include PRIDE’S Knees and Kicks to a downed opponent as well as the UFC’s use of elbows. What do you think about the rules?
HB: They are Great. The Rules are one of the things that I get excited during my daily visualizations of the fight. Mentally I’ve played out face stomps, and soccer kicks so many times that I wake up in the morning to find that I’ve punted pillows across the room like it was a football during my sleep. (Laughing) MMA should be fought with these rules. I like the 3 rounds of 5 minutes. Art Of War uses 2 rounds, one lasting 10 minutes, and the second is 5 minutes. I think the extended round causes a slow down in the action. Being able to break every five minutes will allow me to push the pace from start to finish giving the crowd the action they pay to see.
8. Q: You have mentioned Art of War in Beijing China several times, are you looking to compete for that organization?
HB: Yeah, Of Course. They have a huge TV deal and an expanding audience. Andy Pi is currently the best promoter in Asia. I see that show feeling the void felt by the departure of PRIDE FC. Fighting is my job, I want to fight and showcase my talents, if Art of War wants me to beat up their poster boy, I’d do it for them. (laughing)
9. Q: What are your predictions for the fight in Bali?
HB:First of all I’m looking forward to the experience. Fighting is fun and I view this as my first real opportunity to showcase my skills against a promising opponent. I see Fransino is one of the biggest names on the MMA scene in South East Asia. Now that I am living in Thailand I want my name mentioned with the same reputation as the other top fighters living/competing in the region. Mentally I’m preparing myself for a war. I believe in my training and skills. Going into this fight I would have myself as the favorite.
10. Q: Anything else you would like to mention in this interview?
HB: I want to thank everyone at Tiger Muay Thai. Ray has done a wonderful job getting me ready for this fight. The gym owner Will McNamara has gone out of his way to help me maximize my potential, he really recognizes the support a fighter needs in order to compete as a professional. Training for this fight I have had too many black eyes to thank everyone, but I can’t forget, Wade, Ngoo, Marko, Allan, and Apocalypse. I want to wish Fransino luck, I really respect him for accepting the fight against a bigger foreign opponent. I hope he plans on turning this into a dogfight, the crowd always recognizes a fight between two Gamebred fighters.
December 29, 2007
Welcome to all our guests and friends of the camp as TMT celebrates Christmas 2007 and New Years 2008 with a day of fun. There will be a trainers vs guests football game, exhibition fights and games with trainers @ camp and a BBQ Party starting @ 7:30 p.m.
7 Ko's in her last 8 fights with 4 coming in the first round, Veronika Lundemo, Team MMA Phuket / Tiger Muay Thai fighter is leaving a pile of opponents in her wake both Thai and foreigner.
Veronika has really come around after she started training with Prathet, and for those who know Muay Thai, you can see the similarities in the fighting style. Veronika is a bulldozer in the ring; always moving forward and attacking. She is skilled so that her KO's come from her kicks, hard punches, and devastating knee strikes.When she lets her hands loose, opponents find themselves completely on the defensive.
Check out Veronika's last fight on video
The Japanese can be fussy. It seems after a mountain of paperwork and training for 3-hours and then running to the embassy everyday, Ann was finally informed her Visa was denied. Just like the government to dash a young Thai girls dreams of fighting for a World title on the big stage. Ann is all heart and leaves it all in the ring. Too bad the Japanese Government wouldn't even let her get in the ring and has a lack of heart.
Team MMA Phuket fighter, Alan Harvey, after an impressive Gold Medal performance at SEA Games is heading to Art of War 11 in Beijing, China. Alan has a solid ground game and has been training hard in Muay Thai developing his standup striking skills.
Good luck to Alan and Tiger Muay Thai fighter, Jonny, who will be working the corner for Alan. Jonny is taking a deserving break from training after a impressive KO win on Ko Samui last week.
It is going to be a night of explosive fights in Bali on December 26 as Wade and Andreas representing Team MMA Phuket take NHB style MMA fights as part MMA fight night event.
Andreas has been a machine in training. With a non-stop attitude and work ethic, the young Swedish fighter is all business when the bell rings.
Wade, assistant MMA instructor and Team MMA Phuket fighter is going back to MMA for his next fight and has been training hard and cutting weight to make his fight. Wade has a good ground game and solid stand-up skills and will be looking for the submission early.
Magical Ray has been working the fighters hard in preparation for the fights and teaching the fighters how to scout an opponent before the fight to find a weakness or exploit a flaw.
Guests can see at the camp that TMT has begun construction of several new bungalows and our new MMA training facility for Team MMA Phuket.
Coming in 2008 will see a larger restaurant and parking area. A new recreation area to relax after training.
Welcome to all Tiger Muay Thai and MMA guests and friends of the camp as TMT celebrates Christmas 2007 and New Years with a camp bbq, games, presents, exhibition fights, and more.
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