This article is one small part of a long effort by MixedMartialArts.com to understand what works in martial arts. The primary focus is on what happens on the street, rather than in the arena. However, every once in a while, the focus is on weird or funny moments in combat sports. Check out the library on:
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The video opens with a muay Thai instructor about to demonstrate for the class a low kick on a student. The pair begun with the “Wai.”

This is a traditional gesture to show respect in Thailand, that consists of a slight bowing of the head while pressing the hands together in a prayer-like fashion. The degree of respect is conveyed by the height of the hands and how low the bow is. If you watch the Wai, it is clear that the man in red shorts is the teacher, and the man in yellow, named Manny, is his junior.

The coach explains that low kicks can cause a lot of damage. He positions Manny so the class will have the best view of the lead knee. The coach then leaps up, and drives all his weight into the knee. This kick, execute properly, if not defended correctly, can dislocate a knee.

The reaction of any human watching what happened is undoubtedly some variation of “OH MY GOD, WAT THA F@$%??!?” That is apparently what the coach intended – this appears to be a mad prank on the gathered students. At the very least it was impromptu turning an accident they knew was common into a prank.

Manny’s knee is apparently double-jointed, and as he stands seemingly crumpled in pain, the instructor kicks the knee back into place. By the looks of it though, the process is not painless – Manny, although laughing, appears to be enduring some genuine discomfort.

Small price to pay though, for one of the great pranks in combat sports history.