Before each bout Muay Thai fighters don the mongkon headband and perform a ceremonial dance called the wai kruu honouring their gym’s masters and teachers (kruu).

Traditionally it is not worn when entering the ring, only the fighter’s master should place it on his head and utter a quick blessing for good luck, after which the fighter performs the wai kruu. The mongkon is then taken off and usually placed on or near the corner post for luck.