The Cambodian Kun Khmer team achieved a mix of triumphs and memorable moments at the first-ever International Cambodian Kun Khmer Championship, held in Heraklion on the Greek island of Crete. The historic event, which took place on Sunday night, showcased the rich martial traditions of Cambodia and Greece as fighters from both nations faced off in an exciting display of skill and tenacity.
Cambodian fighters secured significant victories, with four athletes—Thun Rithy, Sorn Rakhim, Kim Vassna, and Thun Sihong—claiming championship belts in their respective weight categories. However, the event also drew attention to a bold act of sportsmanship by Cambodian gold medalist Lorn Panha, who chose to forgo his belt after his opponent was unable to compete.
Victories for Cambodia
Young fighter Thun Sihong delivered an electrifying performance in the 57kg category, defeating Greece’s Tahir Dervishi by knockout in the first round. Sihong’s swift and powerful strikes left no room for recovery, with the referee counting out Dervishi after a series of blows.
In the 72kg class, Kim Vassna demonstrated dominance with a second-round knockout against Greece’s Vasilis Paraskevopoulos. Sorn Rakhim mirrored this success in the 63.5kg division, where he defeated Greece’s Ention Mouchai with another knockout in the second round.
Thun Rithy faced a more challenging contest in the 75kg category but emerged victorious by points after a hard-fought match against Greece’s Panagiotis Kousis.
Lorn Panha’s Stand for Sportsmanship
In a notable moment of the championship, Lorn Panha, a SEA Games 2023 gold medalist, declined to accept the 66kg belt after his Greek opponent, Mario Gousho, was unable to compete due to health issues.
“The belt is beautiful, and I want it, but if we didn’t compete, what’s the point? It has no value because I came here to fight and showcase Cambodian Kun Khmer, but I didn’t get to fight,” Panha remarked.
Following his decision, the 66kg belt was contested in a spirited match between Cambodia’s Kong Sambo and Greece’s Petro Sacho. Sacho triumphed on points, securing the only Greek victory of the night, making Panha’s refusal even more impactful.
Honorary Matches and Mixed Results
In a match for an honorary title, Cambodian veteran Long Sovandoeun defeated Greece’s Matin Latifi via knee strikes, forcing Latifi to submit in the second round. However, Greek fighter Fani Peloumpi secured a points victory over Cambodia’s Toun Sreypenh, marking a rare setback for the Cambodian team.
A Celebration of Martial Traditions
The championship marked a unique encounter between two ancient civilizations with deep martial traditions. Cambodian Kun Khmer fighters demonstrated their prowess and brought global attention to their sport, further solidifying Cambodia’s status as a powerhouse in martial arts.
The event highlighted the strength, honor, and sportsmanship of Cambodian fighters while providing a platform to promote Kun Khmer on the international stage.
Reference: Phnom Penh Post
