In Mahajanga and on the northwest coast of Madagascar in general, people are fond of manly sports — contact sports. Welcome to the land of moraingy, also called “ringa” in the southern side of the island

Moraingy is a typical Malagasy martial art whose origin can be traced back to the 16th century, first as a means of defense against zebu rustlers. According to research made by experts, this local game rooted in a fight called "Tomoi Maley". It was introduced to Madagascar during waves of migration from Malaysia and Indonesia.

Formally, moraingy is a kind of boxing match, without leather gloves but only with a small traditional loin cloth — the “salaka”— which also serves as a protection. Tournaments are traditionally held on market days, when men are available and in a teasing mood. Either in an indoor gymnasium, a municipal stadium or a simple vacant lot, the show would certainly attract a large crowd, of any age and gender. 

What is the rule of the Moraingy?

It is simple: the goal should be to put the opponent on the ground, and all techniques are allowed, including an attack on the opponent's salaka. The main purpose is not properly to win or lose, but to show off their big muscles. Contrary to Western boxing, the knock-out or K.-O is not sought after; we simply count the number of successful punches to determine the winner.

The ring has a classical quadrilateral, stretched with nylon ropes. On the outside, a small corridor separates it from the attendance. It is there that the most excited spectators, young people in particular, come to challenge the wrestlers— called “fagnorolahy”— by raising their fists and whistling loudly.

There is no tatami—a flooring material for martial art— yet the assaults are tough, but fortunately always in a brief duration— about 30 seconds per round. In two to three rounds, the fight usually gets over, under the watchful eye of the referee, who punishes mistakes harshly: no biting or scratching, only punching, and always avoiding vital points.

At the end, the opponents shake hands or exchange hugs, a sign that they do not hold grudges but in the fair play spirit of “Fihavanana” (Malagasy sense of kinship) and “Firaisankina” (Malagasy sense of solidarity).

Moraingy has its own regional champions who remain true stars in their village. Many of them have developed fighting techniques whose secret is carefully passed on from one generation to the next. While long time ago, the winner was rewarded with a cup or a zebu; today, players can win cars, motorcycles and even a great deal of money.

These days, the number of women in the ring is increasing, and that makes the moraingy even more exciting. Moraingy has many fans among the local population but also among foreigners who visit the country. Its practice has also spread to neighboring islands: La Reunion, Mauritius, Mayotte, Comoros and the Seychelles.

Sources: Traditional Sports, Site Lulu Madas, Nosy Be 360, New York Times