Again, JMHO, you're not going to get any hassle unless you give it from my experience down and around Bangla etc I've had more hassle from drunks who can hardly focus on me, seforum.xxxgering and bumping into me and suggesting I did it on purpose etc! I just ignore the wankers.
Nobody has ever come up to me and given me a slap for me to want to give them a slap back! If I've started the slapping then I could understand getting one back.
If you do wade in, knowing the situation in Thailand, the Police, the courts, the hospitals, the prices of medical attention etc then 'up to you' as they say. Expect it to be painful and expensive and a 'different' holiday experience to write up on 'Trip Advisor' or whatever.
It's all circumstancial IMHO when all said and done. I see the shirtless wonders wandering around with their bottles in hand goading Thai's, almost touching noses and spitting at them, screaming for a reaction so they can take a swing and am surprised at the restraint some of these Thai's have had in not responding to that..............at that time!!!!.......that idiot will then be followed discretely down the Soi's by that Thai and several of his mates contacted on the mobile until the time is right and the young idiot will receive the kicking of his life!
Revenge is a dish best served cold...........and normally with about ten mates in tow and possibly with a broken bottle or knife as well! Not worth it.
I guess I am just trying to warn folk to be aware. Try and have your wits about you and try and stay out of it or give reason for anything to erupt into a fight in the first place. Enjoy your ale, enjoy the company, enjoy the place for what it is! I guess if you go looking for trouble and have that kind of attitude whilst down Bangla way..........You'll find it and when I hear the shouting, glass breaking and security running towards the other end of Tiger...........Someone usually has!