Initially introduced in the early eighties, kick-boxing was seen as being traditional Martial Artists ie. Karate & Tae Kwon Do, using their skills combined with common boxing skills in a square ring.  The pioneers of the sport would wear limited amounts of padding and compete in full contact against each other similar to a normal boxing match.

During the late eighties, a far more dominant version of the kick boxing was unveiled, called Muay Thai.  A traditional form of Martial Art from Thailand, Muay Thai fighters used no padding, fought with bandages dipped in resin wrapped around their hands and used all forms of striking possible.  Elbows, knees, spinning punches along with punching and kicking, Muay Thai became a very popular sport amongst the willing and strong.