The 2023 World Muaythai Day, celebrated on February 6 every year, has set a Guinness World Record ©IFMA

The 2023 World Muaythai Day, celebrated on February 6 every year, has set a Guinness World Record.

This year's celebration saw the largest Wai Kru performance as 3,360 martial artists put on a show to celebrate muaythai at Rajabhakti Park.

The performance was led by former muaythai world champion Buakaw Banchamek. 

Thailand Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha, General Naronpan Jitkaethae of the army and officials from the Royal Thai Government attended the event.

Wai Kru is a traditional ritual where students show respect and gratitude to their teachers, parents, and ancestors.

According to the International Federation of Muaythai Associations (IFMA), the first record was set in 2001, when 1,500 school kids performed the Wai Kru in front of Princess Sirivannavari Nariratana Rajakanya.


At the IFMA Youth World Championships last year, 1800 youth from 92 countries performed Wai Kru at the Opening Ceremony.

"Today is a proud day reliving the traditions and the history of ancient times when soldiers performed their willingness to battle for King and Country, where Thailand celebrated the ‘Tiger King’, ‘Phra Chao Suea’ which is for many, the father of Muaythai," IFMA said in a statement.

Muaythai or Thai boxing is officially recognised by the International Olympic Committee.

The sport is set to make its European Games debut this year at Kraków-Małopolska 2023.