"I'd like to think that people respect me for my muaythai talents and not because I chose to change my sex. The fact that I was a woman living in a man's body doesn't detract from the fact that I was born a fighter and that I fought against some really tough competition. I like to fight and I proved myself in the ring."

Nong Tum had an impressive fight record of losing just seven fights of her 55 contests with three draws. Her best weapons were her head high kicks and strong punches.

"My record speaks for itself. I'm now in my 20's but I started fighting when I was 12. Those who saw me fight say I am a beautiful boxer not just because of the way I look. I move beautifully around the ring. I love all the movements of muaythai - the hard and the soft forms.

"I enjoy acting but my greatest satisfaction is teaching muaythai. I like to teach women the skills of muaythai as I can understand their feelings and know how they can assert themselves in the ring."

Nong Tum is one of 30 professional muaythai trainers at the Muay Thai training camp inside the exclusive Fairtex Sport Club for family members.