Thai Child Fighting Culture Sparks Debate After 13-year-old's Death

Thousands of child boxers compete in Thailand's traditional martial art with dreams of belts, glory and prize money -- but the death of a 13-year-old has lit up a sensitive debate o

Bangkok, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 15th Nov, 2018 ) :Thousands of child boxers compete in Thailand's traditional martial art with dreams of belts, glory and prize money -- but the death of a 13-year-old has lit up a sensitive debate over whether competitors start too young.

Centuries-old Muay Thai -- known as the art of eight limbs for the different ways opponents can strike each other with knees, fists, kicks, and elbows -- is the country's de facto national sport and remains a source of immense pride.

But new research within Thailand suggests that the earlier Muay Thai boxers begin, the more prone they are to a range of injuries.

Lawmakers under the country's military leaders have also drafted revamped legislation that would bar children under 12 from competing in the contact sport.

The push has gathered new momentum in light of the death of 13-year-old Anucha Tasako, who died from a brain haemorrhage after his similarly aged opponent struck him with multiple blows to the head at a Saturday charity fight near Bangkok.

Anger erupted on social media where footage of the critical moments of the bout was uploaded.

Deputy prime minister Prawit Wongsuwan instructed the sports ministry to review the legislation, which also requires parental consent for those between 12 and 15 and "physical safety measures".

"The competitions must have appropriate, protective gear from the arena manager," Prawit said according to a spokesperson.