MuayThai in Ratanakosin Period

The first era of this period encompasses the rule of King Rama I to King Rama
IV (B.E. 2325-2411, 1782-1868 CE). At this time, MuayThai was considered the
national fighting art. It was an essential part of every festival.
Eventually, it was decided that rules and regulations were necessary,
especially regarding the length of rounds. An intriguing method of timekeeping
was then developed. A coconut shell would have a hole punched in it and be
floated in a water tank. When the coconut shell sank, a drum signaled the end of
the round. There was no limit to the number of rounds, so the boxers fought until
there was a clear winner or until one of them gave up.