‘Can’t live without fighting’: Myanmar youth find solace in bareknuckle lethwei

AI Summary

In Myanmar, youth find an outlet in the violent traditional sport of lethwei, a form of Burmese boxing known for its brutal rules allowing headbutts and knockouts. The sport provides a sense of purpose and resilience amid ongoing national conflict.

In a country consumed by conflict, a sport defined by brutality dominates: Myanmar’s lethwei martial art, where headbutts are encouraged and knockout blows are the aim of the game. “I can’t live without fighting,” said 19-year-old Su Luck, who enters the ring under the paradoxical pseudonym “Peace Prize”. “I have never once considered giving up this passion,” she said. Lethwei is traditional Burmese boxing, distinct from Thai kickboxing because head blows are permitted and fighters compete...