Lewis Wilson - Bangtao Muay Thai and MMA

Social Mobility and Muay Thai

As a job, Muay Thai can be brutal, but the benefits for Thai fighters go far beyond earning a living. Despite gaining popularity in recent years, the sport wasn’t getting much attention from Thailand’s middle and upper classes back in the day. It was viewed as a poor man’s pursuit, a means to an end, […]

Get to Know Series: Andrew “Woody” Wood

Get to Know Series Episode 5: Andrew “Woody” Wood Bangtao Muay Thai & MMA

Sometimes in life, the way forward needs to be forged anew, not followed – and such was the case for Andrew ‘Woody’ Wood. The myriad twists and turns of life on such a path taught Woody lessons and skills a more tailored approach would not have, and his eagerness to learn and absorb allowed him […]

Bangtao Fighter Max Leali Gears Up for Eternal Flyweight Title Showdown in Perth

Max Leali Eternal Debut for Flyweight Title Max Leali is set to make his return to the MMA Cage on the Australian Promotion in Perth on the 8th of June where he'll fight for the Flyweight Championship Belt. This moment has come about after a long few months of challenges, including health issues and the disappointment of multiple fight cancellations. Despite setbacks, Max's resilience and determination have kept the anticipation of his return to the cage burning among fans and peers in the fight industry. Originally slated to compete for Deep MMA Promotion in March, unforeseen schedule conflicts along side health concerns sidelined Max's aspirations. Battling health setbacks, including the heavy use of antibiotics, and enduring the frustration of eight fight cancellations, Max's goals never budged. Max’s move to Bangtao Muay Thai & MMA A pivotal turning point in Max’s career came along with his move to Bangtao, a decision that proved transformative. Transitioning from a small gym in Hong Kong, where he honed his skills under the guidancd of esteemed Muay Thai and MMA coaches, Max ventured to Syndicate MMA in LasVegas. Despite the opportunities in Las Vegas, Max found himself at odds with its lifestyle. It was the move to Bang Tao that truly breathed new life into his career. Here, amongst a supportive community and under the tutelage of coaches like Frank Hickman, George Hickman, Alex Schild, Woody (Andrew Wood), and Brad Riddell, Max noticed big improvements in his training, refining his striking, jiu-jitsu, and wrestling techniques. “It’s an environment that fosters growth, the whole team is committed to elevating each other” – Max. In this camp Max wanted to thank his teammates, including notable mentions to Che, Felype, and Akeitheon and Jada. Representing Hong Kong For Max, every fight embodies a profound significance. It's an opportunity not only to showcase his skills but also to represent his roots with pride. As a rare ambassador for Hong Kong in the MMA scene, Max represents Hong Kong with honor. The fight for the Eternal belt symbolizes more than just a fight; it's a testament to the spirit of Hong Kong's fighting community. Max extends gratitude to all who have supported him on this journey. He recognizes the sacrifices made by both himself and his loved ones, to represent them with honor and respect. As he steps into the Eternal Cage, Max's mission is clear: to make his supporters proud and to etch his name into the annals of MMA history. If you’d like to support Max’s journey or sponsorship opportunities you can contact him on instagram Max.Leali or via email max.leali95@gmail.com To watch Max’s fight on June 8th you can find the live stream on UFC Fight Pass, we wish Max all the best for his title fight.

Max Leali is about to light up the MMA scene once again. On June 8th, in the heart of Perth, he’s stepping back into the cage with one goal: clinching the Flyweight Championship Belt at Eternal MMA. This moment has been a long time coming, marked by a rollercoaster of challenges, from health issues to […]

Why Phuket is Considered one of the Best Places in the World for Training Muay Thai

Why Phuket is the best place in the world to train muay thai cover image

Phuket has always been known as a bucket list destination for people all over the world. Its stunning beaches, rich local culture, and delicious food make it an ideal vacation spot. Even today, it remains Thailand’s most visited island and has attracted a diverse mix of locals, long-term expats, digital nomads, entrepreneurs, and young families […]

Muay Thai Legends Lerdsila and Sam-A to Host Exclusive Seminar at Bangtao Muay Thai & MMA

Lerdsila and Sam A Muay Thai Seminar Bangtao Muay Thai & MMA

Over 1,100 Combined Fights and 24 World Titles Under One Roof for a Day of Intensive Training. Bangtao Muay Thai & MMA is thrilled to announce an exclusive Muay Thai seminar featuring two of the sport’s most revered figures, Lerdsila Chumpairtour and Sam-A Gaiyanghadao. Scheduled for June 8, this seminar offers participants a rare opportunity […]

Get to know Series: George Hickman

Sometimes passion is ignited by chance, where an unlikely turn takes one down the journey of a lifetime. Many of us fail to take chances and put ourselves out there, but this isn’t the case for George Hickman. When the opportunity to be a full-time MMA coach came up just 12 fights into his MMA […]

UFC Featherweight Titan Alexander “The Great” Volkanovski to Host Exclusive Two-Day Event at Bangtao Muay Thai & MMA

Fans to Experience Unique Training and Q&A Sessions with MMA Legend, Alexander Volkanovski, This May. Bangtao Muay Thai & MMA is proud to announce that Alexander “The Great” Volkanovski, celebrated UFC Featherweight champion and one of the sport’s most formidable fighters, will be visiting Bangtao Muay Thai & MMA for a special two-day event. This […]

Training in Thailand Must Do’s

For many of us, training in Thailand is a dream come true. It takes so much hard work and sacrifice just to get here, so it only makes sense to make the most of it. Here are our top tips for getting the most out of your training camp here at Bangtao. Be Open Training […]

Get to Know Series: Sam-A Gaiyanghadao

Sam-A Gaiyanghadao Muay Thai legend article hero image

In the world of combat sports, the journey to a professional career that spans over three decades is a grueling one. Even the most dedicated athletes would find it difficult to maintain the mental and physical perseverance required. The sport is not just about physical strength and agility; it’s about mental fortitude and the ability […]

Celebrating the 2nd Anniversary of Bangtao Muay Thai & MMA

Bangtao Muay Thai & MMA officially opened in April 2022, but the idea to open a gym had taken root much earlier. In 2020, while a global pandemic had been declared, four friends were looking to make their own luck and try their hands at business ownership. As the world was facing a future of […]

Author: Lewis Wilson