Developments in elite level Thai boxing in Belgium: has there been a civilising influence?

Abstract

This paper analyses the changes in the elite level of Thai Boxing in Belgium from the mid-1980s by employing the concept of ‘sportization’. This analysis demonstrates that there has been a small development towards the condemnation of violence and an increase in the number of weight categories which support an argument in favour of the sportization process, while a reduction of the minimum participation age suggests a counter trend. Although clear changes have been identified for other combat sports, the relative immobility of Thai Boxing is due to the diversified figurational network involving the Belgian Thai Boxing Federation. On the one hand, the federation seeks recognition from the public and the international federations representing the official sports organisations, which requires a visually attractive and safe sport. On the other hand, it also attracts those interested and inspired by its more dangerous physical characteristics. Despite the ambiguity of these findings it is argued that Thai Boxing has undergone a slight sportization process. As the rules and regulations applied in Belgium have always adhered to those of the international federation, it is likely that the results can be seen as reflecting the sport’s development in other nations.