About Nak Muay Foundation

Our Mission

Nak Muay Foundation (NMF) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to the global growth and support of Muay Thai and the communities it empowers. The word “Muay” (มวย) means “boxing,” and “Nak” (นัก) refers to a student or practitioner—together, Nak Muay represents the student of the art.

This meaning inspires us to go beyond the ring. While our roots are in Muay Thai, our mission extends to supporting all students in their journey—whether they are chasing dreams in combat sports or pursuing education, personal growth, and opportunity.

Whether it’s through sponsoring fighters, delivering gear to underserved gyms, funding school supplies, or building safe spaces for youth to learn and train, our purpose remains the same: to support the fighters and students behind the fight.

Our Story

Founded in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic, Nak Muay Foundation was born from the urgent need we witnessed across the global Muay Thai community. With gyms closed and fighters struggling.

Growing up in low-income neighborhoods of California, we know firsthand what it means to struggle—and how much just a little support can change a life. Our experiences in the U.S. Marine Corps gave us the courage to step into unknown territories and take action when others stood still.

What began as a modest effort to give back has grown into a global outreach movement, delivering not only boxing gear, but also providing essential needs like food, school supplies, dental kits, and even home renovations for those in need.

Where We Work

Our projects span across the United States, Thailand, Cambodia, India, and beyond. Some of our recent initiatives include:

  • Sponsoring young athletes like Eliana Renteria in USA.

  • Partnering with Wor. Watthana Orphanage in Buriram, Thailand, to host Muay Thai events.

  • Building a gym for kids in a rural village in North Ayutthaya, Thailand.

  • Supporting Kun Khmer boxing coaches in Cambodia under relocation pressure.

  • Donating supplies and educational resources to Children Legacy Organization in Siem Reap.

  • Delivering gear to under-resourced gyms in Meghalaya, India, by motorcycle through the mountains.

Every project reflects our belief: Muay Thai is more than a sport—it’s a way to uplift lives.

Why We Do It

Muay Thai teaches resilience, respect, and self-discipline—values that transcend the ring. We’ve seen its power to transform lives firsthand, and we’re committed to ensuring that no athlete, coach, or community is left behind.

Giving thanks comes in many forms, and we see our work as a way to give back to the art that has shaped who we are. Whether it’s helping a young fighter train, giving a coach a place to teach, or providing a village with hope—we’re here to serve.

Join Our Mission

If you believe in the spirit of Muay Thai, there’s a place for you in this journey. Whether you want to volunteer, donate, or simply follow our story—your support brings us one step closer to building a stronger, more united Muay Thai community.

Khob Khun Krub/Ka. Chok Dee on your Muay Thai adventure!

Make it stand out

Founding members Daniel Hodges, Ryan Hodges and Jaquline Grier in Cambodia on gear donation mission 2022