When asked how many times he’s been to Thailand to fight, kickboxer Ben Burrage struggles to pinpoint an exact number.
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“Between 15 and 20” is the kickboxer’s answer but when asked why he keeps heading over, his reply comes much more easily.
“I love it. It’s a whole country dedicated to fighting,” Burrage said.
“It’s their national sport, the locals know all the fighters, it’s pretty cool.
“It’s the ultimate for a Muay Thai fighter and it’s such a high level – you’re really testing yourself.”
Burrage will return to Thailand, specifically to Koh Samui, on Monday to train and fight at Lamai Muay Thai Camp.
The Muay Thai fighter has been told he’ll fight within the first week with the potential of more fights while in Thailand.
Last time Burrage went to Thailand, he out-grappled his opponent to score a win using mainly the Muay Khao – known as a knee fighter – style of fighting.
On that occasion, he had no time to prepare but this time around Burrage has been training hard and has ramped things up in the past few weeks in preparation for the six-week trip.
“I’ve been getting different blokes in [to train with]. A few have come up from Sydney and I’ve actually gone to Sydney a couple times,” Burrage said.
“I’m starting to get fit and feeling good.”
While Burrage heads to Thailand with the hope of bringing home a win or two, what he’s most looking forward to is learning from the coaches at Lamai Muay Thai Camp.
“The trainers are at a high level and they teach you, pick you apart, and it just works wonders,” Burrage said.
“You're always learning. Those blokes over there are really top class.
“Then I can come home and pass that on. It keeps you on a level playing field with them over there.”
Burrage thanked The Pub Group and The Albert Hotel for all their support.
