Thailand's Senate has staged a traditional kickboxing fight between two senior senators right outside the Parliament.

The event, which took place on a makeshift arena in front of the Senate building in downtown Bangkok, was to promote Muay Thai or Thai kick boxing.

No holds barred, former professional boxers Direk Tungfang, 64, and Payap Tongchuen, 60, exchanged real punches and kicks to encourage more young people to practise and preserve the national sport and art.

"Both of us, former boxers, are proof that even though we're in our sixties we could still throw some punches, as self-defence, while keeping fit," said Direk Tungfang.

This traditional hand martial art has a long history and many fans in Thailand and abroad.

The senators fought for two rounds, with the referee pronouncing both men winners.