Among the Myanmar people, it is a widely accepted belief that Burmese monks developed Lethwei around the 3rd century for discipline and self-defense. Inscriptions and engravings on temple walls in the ancient city of Bagan provide archaeological and historical evidence that establishes the history of Lethwei to at least 800 A.D.. A thousand-year-old “warrior sport” practiced long ago by ancient Burmese soldiers, Lethwei is a primal form of boxing that is brutal, bloody, fought without gloves, allows headbutts and has few rules. It is a highly effective method of personal combat. As a boxing tradition that is an integral part of the Myanmar (Burma) cultural heritage, Lethwei remains a national art, a historical legacy, a symbol of strength, and a source of national pride. For the people of Myanmar, Lethwei is more than just a combat sport or fighting art. It is a part of their national identity, their tradition, and their culture. 

Thut Ti Lethwei is an approach to Lethwei established and perfected by Saya Win Zin Oo over more than 40 years of teaching and coaching.  While the development of competitive fighters has traditionally been the goal of Lethwei training, Thut Ti Lethwei offers a broader vision. Thut Ti Lethwei focuses on cultivating and celebrating Lethwei. Representing a holistic approach to Lethwei training, Thut Ti Lethwei offers the practice of Lethwei not only as a combat sport, but also as a fighting art, as fitness enhancement, as an opportunity for social interaction, and as a culture with its own rich history, traditions, and practices. It places special emphasis on promoting the positive, diverse, and inclusive aspects of traditional Lethwei while avoiding the negative commercialism and fame-obsession elements that may come with the commercialization of pro sports and often found with the modern-day commercial emphasis occurring with Lethwei. At the same time, Thut Ti Lethwei is meant to serve as one perspective for learning, teaching, and training Lethwei. It is not meant to infer that Thut Ti Lethwei provides the sole philosophy and/or approach to the practice of Lethwei.