Training in Thailand Changed Everything (Joel “The Wolf” Licata) | Pu’u Muay Thai Podcast Ep. 235

In Episode 235 of the Pu’u Muay Thai Podcast, Jonathan Puu sits down virtually in the Black Room at Teep Studios in Scottsdale, Arizona with Joel “The Wolf” Licata, a Muay Thai fighter turned coach who spent five years living and training in Thailand.Joel shares his journey of starting Muay Thai later in life, moving across the world during COVID to train full-time in Chiang Mai, and developing his skills under legendary trainer Thailand Pinsinchai.In this episode, they discuss: What it’s really like training in Thailand with no other foreigners  The difference between Muay Thai in the U.S. vs Thailand  Fighting in Thailand as an older athlete and smaller weight class fighter  Competing internationally, including fights in Thailand and Mexico  The risks of fighting, including injuries and Joel’s decision to retire  How Muay Thai evolves across different rule sets and promotions  The importance of clinch work and technical development  Joel’s transition into coaching at Rising Tide Academy in Maryland Joel also breaks down how training in Thailand shaped his understanding of Muay Thai and why bridging the knowledge gap between Thailand and the United States is critical for the sport’s growth.This episode is a must-listen for fighters, coaches, and anyone considering training or fighting in Thailand, as well as those interested in the long-term journey of Muay Thai beyond just competition.Follow Joel on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joelxthewolf Train with Joel at Rising Tide Academy: https://risingtidemartialarts.us/Support the showLeave a message or text us 24/7/365!+1-805-456-3316💬 What Do You Think? Join the Discussion!📩 DM us on Instagram: @muaythaipodcast💥 Join the Black Room VIP Community to talk more about this topic!📺 WATCH & LISTEN NOW: Available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts & More!👊 Train hard, stay sharp, and keep the Muay Thai spirit alive. See you next time!