‘Training in paradise’: how Bangtao Muay Thai & MMA is changing the fight game in Phuket
- New beachside gym gets seal of approval from combat sports royalty including UFC featherweight champ Alex Volkanovski, Superbon and Zhang Weili
- ‘It’s been years in the making,’ coach George Hickman says – ‘a world-class facility to train fighters in, but also a fitness destination for normal people’
Fighters from all over Phuket have been flocking to the new Bangtao Muay Thai & MMA gym – and now it’s had the seal of approval from combat sports royalty.
“Literally training in paradise,” is how UFC featherweight champion Alex Volkanovski put it to the Post, after teaching a seminar at the gym last week. The 33-year-old Australian is enjoying a holiday in the area following his third successful title defence this month, while making sure he stays sharp.
It’s certainly ideally located. Make a left out of the facility and it takes one minute to reach Surin beach by moped; take a right, and it’s 30 seconds to Bangtao beach.
“I’m just loving being here,” Volkanovski said. “What a spot. I’ve always loved training in Thailand, but sometimes it can get pretty hard bringing the family. I could only go by myself.
“Where we are now, it’s like a holiday. I’m having a holiday and I get to train at the same time. It’s such a beautiful spot, and all the boys are such good training partners, so it’s good vibes.”