Cambodian Kun Khmer fighters achieved outstanding results in recent international matches, demonstrating exceptional strength and determination. In France, all three Cambodian fighters won their bouts, while in Japan, the team recorded two wins and two losses, leaving spectators deeply impressed by the skill and endurance of the Khmer martial arts heirs.
This marke a significant milestone for the Kingdom’s martial artists, particularly in the Sunday event, held in France. Long Benloeurn delivered a remarkable performance by kicking French fighter Spea Bapa in the left leg, forcing him to withdraw in the third round due to injury.
Benloeurn expressed great joy over the major victory — his first-ever fight in France — noting that the third-round stoppage was a personal triumph, especially after facing criticism from some fans who had doubted his abilities.
“When I read those negative comments, I made up my mind to do my best and win, so they could see that I’m not what they said I was,” he told reporters who had travelled to France.
He also acknowledged that Spea Bapa was a skilled and resilient opponent.
“It was a tough fight because my opponent was strong and durable. Every strike he threw was powerful, especially his punches and kicks,” he said.
In the two other French bouts, Thon Sihav defeated local fighter Neo Gomis on points in the 62kg division, while Thym Seanghai — a Cambodian fighter and Kun Khmer coach based in France — also won on points against Unis Soly, in the 54kg class.
Meanwhile, in Japan, five Cambodian fighters took part in the Kun Khmer–Knock Out event on November 8, with results of two wins, two losses and one no contest.
The Cambodian winners were Phaneth Kun Khmer and Reaksmey Kun Khmer. Reaksmey stunned the crowd by knocking out Japanese fighter Kira at the end of the first round in the 51kg division, while Phaneth knocked out Japan’s Rui Kakizaki late in the second round in the 55kg category.
However, Sen Radeth lost on points to Japanese champion Yuki Morioka, and Toch Chanvortey was knocked out by Russian fighter Zatina in the second round of their 53kg class. The match between Meas Bunthen and Japan’s Hikara Furumura in the 57kg division ended without an official result after Bunthen accidentally poked his opponent’s eye, rendering the Japanese fighter unable to continue. The judges ruled the bout a no contest.
As a result, the team matchup between Cambodia’s Kun Khmer and Japan’s Knock Out promotion ended in a draw — with two wins and two losses apiece. Yet, the spirit and endurance of Radeth earned widespread admiration.
During his fight, Radeth suffered a barrage of punches and knees from Morioka, leaving his face swollen and bleeding from both nostrils by the end of the first round. The referee even issued a count against him. Despite this, Radeth refused to give up, showing incredible toughness and heart.
Even as Morioka continued his powerful attacks, Radeth kept pressing forward, trading blows bravely. The crowd erupted in amazement when, in the third round, Radeth landed a counter that forced the referee to count Morioka.
Although he ultimately lost on points after three rounds, Radeth’s unbreakable fighting spirit drew praise from both Cambodian and Japanese audiences. His courage became a lasting memory and an inspiration for Kun Khmer fans.
The embassy of Cambodia in Japan, which sent representatives to attend and encourage the Cambodian athletes, congratulated the team for their participation in the event, saying it played a vital role in strengthening Cambodia–Japan relations and promoting Kun Khmer internationally.
“This major event marks an important contribution to the Cambodian government’s efforts to showcase and promote the ancient martial art of Kun Khmer to the world. It also helps deepen the long-standing friendship between Cambodia and Japan in the fields of culture, education, tourism and people-to-people exchange,” said an embassy statement.
