For some, boxing has become a hard-won ticket out of a life of crime in ThailandPhotographs for Time by Philip Blenkinsop / Noor
Rising Champ
Amnat Ruenroeng, 29, trains hard with the rest of the Thai Olympic teamin Danang, Vietnam. Boxing, the three-time convict says, has brought focusand discipline to his life.
Blow-by-Blow
Jailbird-turned-boxer Wannee "Nongmai" Chaisena recounts her tale toTIME while sitting outside her small convenience store on Phet Buri Road inBangkok.
Heavy Hitter
Thai Olympic hopeful Ruenroeng prepares to step on the scale after amorning practice in Danang, Vietnam, with his Cuban trainer looking on.
Pulling no Punches
Ruenroeng listens closely to his trainer's advice after a morningworkout. He took up boxing to fight boredom while serving 15 years forrobbery.
Fighting to Live
Ruenroeng steels himself for a fight while training in Danang.Photographs for Time by Philip Blenkinsop / Noor
In this Corner
Siriporn "Samson" Thaveesuk, who went to prison at age 17 for dealingdrugs, makes her way to the ring. Ten rounds later, she takes down herJapanese challenger and keeps her international title.
A Way Out
Samson's trainer shouts advice between rounds. Her boxing prowess got herreleased early from prison.
Going the Distance
Samson stands with gloves aloft, posing for photographers after defeatingher opponent. She was the first convict ever to win the World BoxingCouncil's light-flyweight title while still serving time.
In the Kisser
Female inmates at a Bangkok prison spar in the ring at the end of anafternoon training session.
Rolling with the Punches
Roj, a 20-year-old who fights in the 54-kg class, slams her fist into apunching bag as she trains with fellow inmates.
Gloves are Off
Inmates chat amiably while awaiting their turns to pummel each other inthe ring.
Prize Fight
Siriporn Chutikulun, director of the Women's Correctional Institute forDrug Addicts, lectures fighters.
The Contenders
Eager boxers line up at the end of their morning training at a prisonoutside Bangkok.
