The TBA-SA’s roots trace back to a pivotal dinner conversation between Ajarn Chai Sirisute, widely regarded as the father of American Muay Thai, and Pete Peterson, a former Marine and devoted martial artist. Chai had introduced Muay Thai to the United States, and Pete, one of his best students, recognized a gap in the American fight scene: there was no major tournament dedicated solely to Muay Thai, where all eight limbs—elbows, knees, fists, and shins—could be fully weaponized. “You do it, sir,” Chai told Pete, and with that, the seed for the TBA tournament was planted1.

Pete and his wife Pam took up the challenge, launching the first TBA tournament in 2007. That inaugural event was modest and hastily organized (“Terrible,” Chai later remarked, shaking his head), but it laid the foundation for what would become the largest Muay Thai tournament in North America1.

From humble beginnings, the TBA tournament grew exponentially. In 2008, 122 fighters competed—a number that swelled to 323 by 2012 and 460 by 2016. Today, the event, now known as the TBA Classic—Muay Thai Expo, regularly attracts over a thousand competitors from across the globe, making it the preeminent proving ground for North American Nak Muay145.

The TBA-SA’s success is due in part to its alignment with international standards. While the organization is independent, it collaborates closely with the World Boxing Council Muay Thai (WBCMT) and adheres to the principles of the World Thaiboxing Association, ensuring that its events maintain a high level of authenticity, safety, and fair play. This partnership allows for dual certification of officials and the adoption of best practices from the global Muay Thai community35.

Pete Peterson’s influence extends far beyond event organization. He is an experienced referee and judge, having officiated in Thailand, international tournaments, and national championships. His training in Thailand gave him firsthand experience with the nuances of traditional Muay Thai scoring and officiating, which he has brought back to the U.S. to elevate the standard of judging and refereeing at American events23.

Recognizing the need for more competent and knowledgeable officials as the sport grew, Pete developed the TBA-SA Officials Intensive—a comprehensive, three-day course that educates, trains, and certifies referees and judges. The curriculum covers in-depth judging and scoring criteria, as well as referee procedures and protocols. Since its inception, the Intensive has certified over 90 officials, many of whom were already experienced but now operate under a more structured and improved protocol. The course is unique in the world, offering dual certification with WBCMT USA and setting a new benchmark for Muay Thai officiating in North America3.

The TBA Classic—Muay Thai Expo is the crown jewel of the TBA-SA’s calendar. Held annually in Des Moines, Iowa, the event has become a milestone for fighters of all ages and skill levels, from six-year-old boys to veterans in their 40s and 50s. It is a place where competitors test their skills, learn from each other, and experience the full spectrum of Muay Thai’s physical and mental demands145.

Beyond the main expo, the TBA-SA sanctions single-day promotions and continues to develop new initiatives to support fighter safety, education, and community engagement. The organization’s motto, “MuayThaiDoneRight,” reflects its commitment to maintaining the integrity and spirit of the sport45.

The TBA-SA is more than just a tournament organizer. It is a community builder, fostering discipline, respect, and a shared love for Muay Thai. “That a lot of what this tournament is about,” Pete Peterson has said, “is really spreading this art and getting more and more gyms involved. Developing the talent and giving fighters a place to compete and learn and improve.” Ajarn Chai adds, “But more than anything, is discipline, sir”1.

The next chapter in the TBA-SA’s history is about to unfold. The 2025 TBA Classic—Muay Thai Expo is scheduled for June 18–22, 2025, in Des Moines, Iowa. This year’s event promises to be the biggest yet, with over 1,100 registrations already received. Fighters, coaches, officials, and fans from across the continent will gather to celebrate the art and sport of Muay Thai, compete for championships, and participate in educational seminars45.

The TBA-SA continues to set the standard for Muay Thai in North America, thanks to the vision of Pete and Pam Peterson, its alignment with global organizations, and its unwavering commitment to fighter safety, education, and the true spirit of the sport. The upcoming expo is not just an event—it is a celebration of a community that has grown from a simple idea into a movement that shapes the future of Muay Thai in America.