Mission[edit]
Dave Leduc vs Thai Inmate at Prison Fight Thailand 2014
Since its foundation, Prison Fight gained widespread attention for its controversial concept[7] where violent inmates can reduce their sentences[4] and even earn their freedom by winning a series of Muay Thai fights against foreign fighters.[13]
The ultimate aim of the Thai Department of Corrections through the Prison Fight events, is the implementation of a rehabilitation program to promote sport and good health among prisoners.[11] Development of sports inside prisons walls is believed to minimize internal problems such as diseases, drug abuse and violent behaviour.[9][12]
History[edit]
The Thai Penal System has a long history of organizing sporting events, from soccer and basketball tournaments to weightlifting competitions.[7] In an effort to modernize the penal system, Thai authorities began issuing sentence reductions to the athletes viewed as bringing honor to their country. In the 1980s, Thai Department of Corrections introduced a program called Sports Behind Bars. This gave birth to the Thai tradition of pardoning outstanding fighters.[8] Muay Thai was one of the first activities offered.[1]
Since then, only a handful of prisoners have managed to parlay their skill into an early release. In 2007, the imprisoned drug dealer Siriporn Taweesuk beat a Japanese boxer for the World Boxing Council light-flyweight title in a match held at Klong Prem Prison. Not long afterward, she was released, having achieved, in the words of one Thai official, "glory for Thailand."[1] That same year, Amnat Ruenroeng, a muay Thai veteran and convicted robber serving 15 years at Bangkok's Thonburi prison, was pardoned after winning a national title in boxing. He subsequently qualified to represent Thailand at the 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing.[14]
Creation[edit]
Prison Fight is the brain-child of an international team of proponents of rehabilitation via martial arts, notably Aree Chaloisuk,[3] former director of the Klong Pai Central Prison, in Nakhon Ratchasima, two hours north of Bangkok, and of Estonian businessman Kirill Sokur.[7] The first three Prison Fight events were held in early 2013 at Klong Pai prison. In past events, Chalernpol Sawangsuk, an inmate competitor in the third event, was released shortly after his victory over British Muay Thai fighter Arran Burton.[15]
One of the main reasons the Prison Fight program has captivated the worldwide media is the slogan: "Battle for Freedom". Many believed the fights were organized as a way for prisoners to fight and secure a pardon,[12] but it appears to be much more than that. Nowadays, Prison Fight established stricter rules for the inmates wishing to participate in the program. They are expected to display exemplary behavior and personal development along with their fighting skills.[8] When it comes to fighting convicts, former notable competitor Dave Leduc said to Bangkok Post : "They deserve to get my 100%," adding, "If he wins, then he earns it."[12][16][17]
