Thohsaphol Sitiwatjana, known as Master Toddy in the western world, was born on April 5, 1953 in Thailand. From a young age, he was fascinated by martial arts. At just five years old, he began his journey into the world of combat sports. By the time he was 13, he had already obtained a black belt in Tae Kwon Do, showcasing his dedication and skill at a young age.
At 16, Sitiwatjana became the head coach at his Muay Thai school. This marked the beginning of his influential career in the world of martial arts. He was determined to master the art of Muay Thai and share his knowledge and skills with others.
Master Toddy was known for his unconventional training methods. One of his most unique methods of practice involved wrestling crocodiles at the Samut Prakarn Crocodile Farm, which had been owned by his parents. This extreme form of training helped him build strength, agility, and fearlessness.
His dedication to his craft and willingness to push himself beyond traditional boundaries set him apart from other fighters and instructors. He was always looking for new ways to improve his skills and challenge himself, leading to his reputation as a fearless and disciplined martial artist.
Master Toddy quickly gained recognition for his skills and teaching abilities. He founded Master Toddy's U.S. Muay Thai Center, where he trained numerous successful fighters, including former kickboxing champions Lisa Howarth and Bob Sapp. His innovative training methods and emphasis on discipline and technique helped his students achieve success in the ring.
His talents also caught the eye of the entertainment industry. Master Toddy appeared in various films and television series, showcasing his martial arts skills and charisma. He was cast in notable projects such as Sword of Honour and The Man with the Golden Gun, where he impressed audiences with his fighting abilities.
Despite his success, Master Toddy faced challenges in pursuing his passion for Muay Thai. His parents, Sudsac Sitiwatjana and Sophorn Sitiwatjana, were strongly opposed to his involvement in fights. In Thailand, Muay Thai was often seen as a "poor man's sport," and his parents did not support his aspirations in the martial arts world.
Despite his parents' reservations, Master Toddy continued to pursue his dreams. He would sneak out of his parents' home to participate in bareknuckle street fights and temple fights, determined to prove his skills and dedication to the sport.
Throughout his career, Master Toddy trained some of the most notable fighters in the world of combat sports. His list of students includes legends such as Tito Ortiz, Randy Couture, and Gina Carano. His influence on the world of martial arts has been profound, with many of his students going on to achieve great success in the ring.
Master Toddy's legacy as "The Father of English Muay Thai" is a testament to his dedication, skill, and passion for the sport. His impact on the world of martial arts continues to be felt, inspiring new generations of fighters and instructors to push their boundaries and strive for greatness.
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