May 22
With the supervision of Myanmar Lethwei Federation, ANS Fight-2 events of traditional Lethwei (Myanmar’s boxing) will be launched at Theinbyu Boxing Gymnasium in Mingala Taungyunt Township, Yangon starting at 1:00 pm on 28 May.
In the three-round bout, Kyaw Kyaw Moe (M2k) will take on Saw Gapae Phoe (Yoeya Kyar).
Interesting fights of Ye Kyaw Oo (Ray) vs Aung Lay (Yoeya Kyar), Thiha (Meiktila) vs Salai Thang Kwi Shein (Ze Manma), Aung Bo Tun (Yoeya Kyar) vs Aung Pyae Sone (Tawwin Ayeya), Ye Lin Oo (Smart Fight) vs Paing Thet Aung (Kanyaw Thwi), Saw Solomon (Yoeya Kyar) vs Khit Thit Sein (Python MMA), Ko Ko (PL Phone La Pyae) vs Hanthawady (Lethwei Warrior) are included in the four-round bout category.
In the five-round bout, Kyar Pauk (900-tonne Factory) will face Thway Thit Maung (Aphyu Yaung Thway Thit) while Kyaw Swa Win (M2K) will fight against Shue Kalein Min (900-tonne Factory). Myanmar’s Lethwei is believed to have originated in the days of the ancient Pyu kingdoms, but clear evidences had been found only in the Bagan period. Some of the mural paintings in Bagan’s stupas feature boxing and wrestling, as well as athletes and performers.
During the reigns of the ancient Myanmar kings, Lethwei techniques were taught in the royal army along with warfare. Lethwei bouts were also celebrated with great enthusiasm.
During the reign of King Thibaw, Lethwei fighters were honoured with the title of “Great Fighter”.—TWA/KZL
