Lerdsila's 4 Lessons From A Life Of Muay Thai

“Mr. Lighting” Lerdsila Phuket Top Team is one of the most decorated Muay Thai practitioners in the world.

The 37-year old has captured the WKN, WPMF, and WMC Lightweight World Titles, as well as Rajadamnern Stadium championships in three weight divisions.

Ahead of his ONE Super Series Muay Thai rematch with Sok Thy at ONE: WARRIOR’S DREAM on Saturday, 17 November, his record stands at an incredible 187-31-5.

But it is not only victories and silverware that the Thai icon has gathered across three decades in the ring.

Lerdsila has learned many valuable lessons from a life practicing the art of eight limbs, which he shares ahead of his return in an eagerly anticipated flyweight contest at the Stadium Istora.

#1 Discipline Comes First

Lerdsila would never have achieved half of what he has without dedication to his craft.

“Without discipline, I wouldn’t be where I am today,” he says.

He was not always so committed to his martial art. Starting his career off at the tender age of 7, Lerdsila, like all young boys, preferred to go out and play with his friends.

However, when he realized what was at stake in the ring – personal glory and the ability to provide for his family – he prioritized his training above everything else.

Whenever he wavered from his routine, his success suffered, but for most of his career, the Thai hero has been steadfast in his commitment to greatness.

By maintaining a grueling training schedule, keeping his weight on track, and looking after his health, he has achieved what most athletes can only dream of.

#2 Gratitude For Greatness

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Despite all of his accomplishments and his status as a legend of his sport, “Mr. Lightning” remains humble because he never forgets where he came from.

Muay Thai has allowed him to improve his family’s quality of life, as well as his own.

“Everyday I am grateful to Muay Thai and the life it has allowed me to live,” he says.

In his youth, he tilled the fields with his parents, putting in hours of backbreaking work to collect enough food to eat. His talents as a martial artist allowed him to leave that life behind.

It still took a lot of hard work to reach the pinnacle of the sport, and crucially, the support of so many others. He is thankful for all the time and effort they gave to him, too.

#3 Martial Arts Broadens The Mind

Between his humble beginnings to his debut performance on the global stage for martial arts, Lerdsila has traveled far and wide, and experienced new cultures across the globe.

His journey has allowed him to cross paths with countless people, and through working with them all —  as a student, competitor, champion, teacher, and a global ambassador for Muay Thai — he has grown as an athlete and a man.

“I’ve learned to work with a lot of different types of people, in many different scenarios – all over the world,” he says.

“Whether it be [through] promoters, students, or even my opponents, I am much more confident in my abilities.”

#4 Respect Is Everything

Like all true martial artists, Lerdsila has the highest regard for every man he meets in the ring.

“We must always respect our opponents, and exhibit good sportsmanship at all times,” he says.

Whether he is in the midst of battle, celebrating a victory, or licking his wounds after a defeat, the Phuket native stays true to these core values.

That has never been more evident than during his rivalry with Sok Thy, which will continue at ONE: WARRIOR’S DREAM.

Despite having over two decades’ more experience than his Cambodian opponent at ONE: PINNACLE OF POWER, Lerdsila did not underestimate him, and embraced him after three hard rounds of battle.

When the verdict was announced and he was declared the winner by the narrowest of margins, he was quick to console Thy, and subsequently agree to a rematch, which will go down in Jakarta.