Puu Muay Thai Podcast

Puu Muay Thai

Welcome to the Pu’u Muay Thai Podcast—your go-to source for all things Muay Thai! Broadcasting from our dedicated Muay Thai podcast studio in Scottsdale, AZ, we bring you expert insights from fighters, coaches, officials, and gym owners worldwide. Whether you're a beginner, competitor, or coach, we cover training, fight breakdowns, event coverage, Muay Thai history, industry trends, travel, nutrition, business strategies, and more. Hosted by Jonathan Puu, a former pro fighter, veteran coach, and professional Muay Thai ring official, this podcast delivers authentic, no-BS conversations straight from the heart of the sport. Expect interviews with top-level athletes, promoters, and insiders, as well as discussions on gym culture, coaching strategies, and the evolution of Muay Thai globally. 🔥 Stay connected to the world of Muay Thai—subscribe now! 🔥

  1. 4D AGO

    Inside Monster Promotions: Building Muay Thai Events in the U.S. | Pu’u Muay Thai Podcast Ep. 234

    In Episode 234 of the Pu’u Muay Thai Podcast, Jonathan Puu sits down in person in the Black Room at Teep Studios in Scottsdale, Arizona with Mike Martinez, founder of Monster Promotions and longtime coach, matchmaker, and event promoter. Mike returns to the podcast (previously featured on Episode 164) to break down what it actually takes to build Muay Thai events in the United States — from matchmaking and fighter development to the real economics behind running a show. In this episode, they discuss:  How Monster Promotions started and why it was built  The reality of running Muay Thai events in the U.S. (costs, logistics, and risk)  What makes good matchmaking — and why “easy fights” don’t grow fighters  Building fight cards, tournaments, and title bouts  The challenges of promoting in smaller markets like Flagstaff, Arizona  Elevation, travel, and preparation for fighters competing at altitude  How fighters and gyms can better support promotions and grow the sport  The importance of relationships, collaboration, and long-term vision in Muay Thai Mike also shares insight into upcoming events like Cinco de Monster, expansion plans into Las Vegas and Phoenix, and how promotions are evolving with media, livestreaming, and modern marketing. This episode is a must-listen for fighters, coaches, gym owners, and anyone interested in the business and growth of Muay Thai in the United States. Learn more about Monster Promotions: https://www.monsterpromotions.org/ Support the show Leave a message or text us 24/7/365! +1-805-456-3316 💬 What Do You Think? Join the Discussion! 📩 DM us on Instagram: @muaythaipodcast 💥 Join the Black Room VIP Community to talk more about this topic! 📺 WATCH & LISTEN NOW: Available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts & More! 👊 Train hard, stay sharp, and keep the Muay Thai spirit alive. See you next time!

    43 min
  2. MAR 20

    Is Muay Thai Losing Its Identity? Tradition vs Evolution in Modern Muay Thai | Pu’u Muay Thai Podcast Ep. 233

    In Episode 233 of the Pu’u Muay Thai Podcast, Jonathan Puu explores a question that’s becoming more common in conversations around the sport: Is Muay Thai losing its identity? With the rise of international promotions, new rule sets, and growing influence from MMA, the way Muay Thai is practiced and presented around the world is changing rapidly. From small-glove fights to altered scoring systems and shortened fight structures, many fans and practitioners are asking whether these changes represent healthy evolution — or a shift away from the art’s traditional roots. In this episode, Jonathan breaks down several of the biggest factors shaping modern Muay Thai: The growing influence of MMA striking stylesThe debate around small-glove Muay Thai vs traditional boxing glovesHow different scoring systems change the way fights are foughtThe impact of international promotions and global audiencesChanges happening inside historic Thai stadiums like Rajadamnern and LumpineeWhy understanding Muay Thai culture matters for preserving the artDrawing from nearly two decades of experience as a student, fighter, coach, gym owner, and ring official, Jonathan explains how Muay Thai has always evolved — while also highlighting the elements that make the art unique and worth protecting. Muay Thai today is more global than ever before. But with that growth comes an important question: how do we allow the sport to evolve without losing the traditions, culture, and technical depth that define it? Whether you’re a fighter, coach, fan, or someone new to the sport, this episode explores the ongoing conversation about the future of Muay Thai. Support the show Leave a message or text us 24/7/365! +1-805-456-3316 💬 What Do You Think? Join the Discussion! 📩 DM us on Instagram: @muaythaipodcast 💥 Join the Black Room VIP Community to talk more about this topic! 📺 WATCH & LISTEN NOW: Available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts & More! 👊 Train hard, stay sharp, and keep the Muay Thai spirit alive. See you next time!

    13 min
  3. MAR 13

    How to Know If Your Muay Thai Gym Is Legit | Pu’u Muay Thai Podcast Ep. 232

    In Episode 232 of the Pu’u Muay Thai Podcast, Jonathan Puu breaks down how to evaluate whether a Muay Thai gym is legitimate before you commit your time and training to it. With nearly two decades of experience as a student, fighter, coach, gym owner, and ring official, Jonathan has seen the full spectrum of gyms — from excellent programs with deep cultural roots to places that simply market Muay Thai without truly teaching the art. In this episode, Jonathan explains the key things to look for when evaluating a Muay Thai academy, including: Why coaching lineage matters and how to ask about itWhat a structured Muay Thai class should actually look likeThe difference between authentic Muay Thai training and cardio kickboxingWhy gym culture and community reveal a lot about legitimacyTechnical details every Muay Thai gym should be teachingThe role of sparring and safety in a healthy training environmentCommon red flags to watch for when choosing a martial arts gymMuay Thai is more than just hitting pads or getting a workout — it’s a cultural martial art built on discipline, respect, and technical depth. Choosing the right gym can shape your entire experience in the art. Whether you’re new to Muay Thai or thinking about switching gyms, this episode will help you understand how to recognize authentic Muay Thai training and avoid common pitfalls. Support the show Leave a message or text us 24/7/365! +1-805-456-3316 💬 What Do You Think? Join the Discussion! 📩 DM us on Instagram: @muaythaipodcast 💥 Join the Black Room VIP Community to talk more about this topic! 📺 WATCH & LISTEN NOW: Available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts & More! 👊 Train hard, stay sharp, and keep the Muay Thai spirit alive. See you next time!

    15 min
  4. MAR 6

    Fox Sports Radio Interview: Bringing Muay Thai to Ventura with Eat Sleep Teep | Pu’u Muay Thai Podcast Ep. 231

    In Episode 231 of the Pu’u Muay Thai Podcast, Jonathan Puu joins Fox Sports Radio KVTA 1590 in Ventura, California for an in-studio conversation with host Spence and guest host Spencer Noren. The discussion centers around the Eat Sleep Teep Semi-Contact Muay Thai event, a local amateur competition designed to introduce kids, teens, and adults to Muay Thai in a safe and structured environment. During the interview, Jonathan explains how Muay Thai differs from other martial arts, why the sport is growing across the Central Coast, and how events like Eat Sleep Teep help develop future athletes while staying family-friendly and accessible to beginners. Topics covered in this radio segment include: What Muay Thai actually is and how it developed historicallyWhy Muay Thai is one of the most effective martial arts for self-defense and disciplineHow Eat Sleep Teep events help build the next generation of fightersThe benefits of Muay Thai training for kids, adults, and beginnersWhy most students train for personal growth rather than competitionJonathan’s experience officiating professional Muay Thai events across the United StatesThe role of local gyms and community events in growing combat sportsThe conversation also touches on Jonathan’s roots in Ventura County, the local martial arts community, and how Muay Thai programs are helping young people develop discipline, confidence, and physical fitness. If you're curious about Muay Thai, amateur competition, or the growing combat sports scene on California’s Central Coast, this episode gives a behind-the-scenes look at how the sport is developing at the local level. Support the show Leave a message or text us 24/7/365! +1-805-456-3316 💬 What Do You Think? Join the Discussion! 📩 DM us on Instagram: @muaythaipodcast 💥 Join the Black Room VIP Community to talk more about this topic! 📺 WATCH & LISTEN NOW: Available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts & More! 👊 Train hard, stay sharp, and keep the Muay Thai spirit alive. See you next time!

    16 min
  5. FEB 27

    What Really Happened Inside USA Muay Thai? Michael Corley Responds | Pu'u Muay Thai Podcast Ep. 230

    In Episode 230 of the Pu’u Muay Thai Podcast, Jonathan Puu sits down in person at Teep Studios with Michael Corley, former President of USA Muay Thai, professional fighter, coach, and longtime advocate for the growth of Muay Thai in America. This conversation goes beyond surface-level talking points and dives into leadership, governance, athlete development, and the realities of building Muay Thai at a national level. In this episode, they discuss: What it was like leading USA Muay Thai during a pivotal eraThe challenges of running a nonprofit in combat sportsNational team development and international competitionGovernance, politics, and controversy within Muay Thai organizationsThe responsibility of protecting standards in the U.S.Athlete pathways from amateur to elite competitionThe long-term vision for Muay Thai in AmericaMichael shares candid insight into what worked, what didn’t, and what the next generation of leaders must understand if Muay Thai is going to grow without losing its integrity. This episode is essential listening for fighters, coaches, gym owners, officials, and anyone serious about the future of Muay Thai in the United States. Be sure to follow: https://www.instagram.com/heritagemuaythai/ And Heritage Muay Thai online @ https://heritagemuaythai.com/ Support the show Leave a message or text us 24/7/365! +1-805-456-3316 💬 What Do You Think? Join the Discussion! 📩 DM us on Instagram: @muaythaipodcast 💥 Join the Black Room VIP Community to talk more about this topic! 📺 WATCH & LISTEN NOW: Available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts & More! 👊 Train hard, stay sharp, and keep the Muay Thai spirit alive. See you next time!

    1h 6m
  6. FEB 20

    The Two-Year Muay Thai Drop-Off Nobody Talks About | Pu’u Muay Thai Podcast Ep. 229

    In Episode 229 of the Pu’u Muay Thai Podcast, Jonathan Puu breaks down a pattern almost no one talks about — the two-year Muay Thai drop-off, when many students quietly disappear right as they’re getting good. This isn’t the beginner phase. It’s not fear, soreness, or lack of toughness. In fact, most people who quit around the two-year mark are more skilled and confident than ever. What they’re actually experiencing isn’t failure — it’s transition. In this episode, Jonathan explains: Why year one is survival and year two becomes an identity crisisThe psychology of conscious competence and false plateausWhy your original reason for training often expires around two yearsHow progress becomes quieter — but deeper — at this stageThe difference between familiarity and masteryWhy most people don’t need motivation, but a new targetHow mentors, environment, and community prevent long-term dropoutWhy this phase is the most important retention window for coachesJonathan also shares his own near-exit from Muay Thai at the two-year mark, what stopped him from quitting, and how staying through that transition changed the entire direction of his life. If you’re around two years into training and wondering “what’s next,” this episode explains why you’re not stuck — you’re standing at the doorway to the next phase of Muay Thai. Support the show Leave a message or text us 24/7/365! +1-805-456-3316 💬 What Do You Think? Join the Discussion! 📩 DM us on Instagram: @muaythaipodcast 💥 Join the Black Room VIP Community to talk more about this topic! 📺 WATCH & LISTEN NOW: Available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts & More! 👊 Train hard, stay sharp, and keep the Muay Thai spirit alive. See you next time!

    12 min
  7. FEB 13

    Why Muay Thai in America Is Still Misunderstood | Pu’u Muay Thai Podcast Ep. 228

    In Episode 228 of the Pu’u Muay Thai Podcast, Jonathan Puu breaks down why Muay Thai in America is still widely misunderstood—even by people who think they know what it is. From being confused with kickboxing or cardio workouts to being seen as “too violent” or “only for fighters,” Muay Thai has often been introduced in the U.S. without its cultural, technical, and developmental context. As a result, many people miss out on what Muay Thai actually is—and what it can offer beyond fighting. In this episode, Jonathan explores: How Muay Thai was first introduced to American audiences through violence and highlight reelsWhy the fitness industry unintentionally stripped Muay Thai of its identityHow fighting became the only measure of legitimacy in the U.S.Why impatience and short-term thinking clash with Muay Thai’s long-term natureThe difference between borrowing techniques and truly training the artWhat Muay Thai actually represents: discipline, regulation under pressure, humility, and communityDrawing from nearly two decades of experience as a student, fighter, coach, gym owner, promoter, and ring official, Jonathan explains why Muay Thai isn’t struggling because it lacks value—but because it hasn’t always been represented or explained properly. This episode is a call to protect the integrity of Muay Thai without watering it down, and to help more people understand it as a lifelong practice—not a phase, trend, or workout. If Muay Thai in America were better understood, fewer people would quit—and more would stay long enough for it to change them. Support the show Leave a message or text us 24/7/365! +1-805-456-3316 💬 What Do You Think? Join the Discussion! 📩 DM us on Instagram: @muaythaipodcast 💥 Join the Black Room VIP Community to talk more about this topic! 📺 WATCH & LISTEN NOW: Available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts & More! 👊 Train hard, stay sharp, and keep the Muay Thai spirit alive. See you next time!

    13 min
  8. FEB 6

    What Muay Thai Gave Me That I Didn’t Know I Needed | Pu’u Muay Thai Podcast Ep. 227

    In Episode 227 of the Pu’u Muay Thai Podcast, Jonathan Puu reflects on what Muay Thai gave him over nearly two decades — not in techniques or fights, but in the lessons he didn’t know he needed at the time. Like many people, Jonathan didn’t start Muay Thai searching for discipline, clarity, or purpose. He just wanted to train, learn how to fight, defend himself, and push his limits. But over time, Muay Thai quietly provided structure, humility, emotional control, confidence, and a sense of belonging that carried far beyond the gym. This episode explores: How Muay Thai provides structure before you realize you need itWhy humility and patience are built through long-term trainingLearning emotional regulation under pressure and discomfortDeveloping confidence without chasing validationHow Muay Thai creates real community and belongingWhy the most valuable lessons often appear years laterJonathan shares how Muay Thai helped him stay grounded during uncertain stages of life, taught him to regulate emotion under pressure, and build a quiet confidence rooted in consistency rather than outcomes. This episode isn’t about motivation or hype. It’s about the deeper, lasting impact of staying in Muay Thai long enough for it to shape who you become — on and off the mats. If you’ve ever wondered why Muay Thai feels like more than just training, this conversation explains why. Support the show Leave a message or text us 24/7/365! +1-805-456-3316 💬 What Do You Think? Join the Discussion! 📩 DM us on Instagram: @muaythaipodcast 💥 Join the Black Room VIP Community to talk more about this topic! 📺 WATCH & LISTEN NOW: Available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts & More! 👊 Train hard, stay sharp, and keep the Muay Thai spirit alive. See you next time!

    11 min
5
out of 5
36 Ratings

About

Welcome to the Pu’u Muay Thai Podcast—your go-to source for all things Muay Thai! Broadcasting from our dedicated Muay Thai podcast studio in Scottsdale, AZ, we bring you expert insights from fighters, coaches, officials, and gym owners worldwide. Whether you're a beginner, competitor, or coach, we cover training, fight breakdowns, event coverage, Muay Thai history, industry trends, travel, nutrition, business strategies, and more. Hosted by Jonathan Puu, a former pro fighter, veteran coach, and professional Muay Thai ring official, this podcast delivers authentic, no-BS conversations straight from the heart of the sport. Expect interviews with top-level athletes, promoters, and insiders, as well as discussions on gym culture, coaching strategies, and the evolution of Muay Thai globally. 🔥 Stay connected to the world of Muay Thai—subscribe now! 🔥

You Might Also Like