Cambodian fighter Pich Sambath, known by his ring name “Wild Buffalo”, delivered a stunning performance by defeating China’s multi-title holder Carlos Su, leaving his opponent’s face swollen and bloodied to claim a belt at last night’s “Krud Kun Khmer to China 2” event in Chengdu, Sichuan province.
Female fighter Rithy Vannich also claimed a victory in her first-ever bout on Chinese soil, while Lao Chitra fought to a draw. However, Pich Athitep and Moeun Sokhuch both suffered defeats, offering apologies to their supporters. Eh Yanut also lost to a Chinese opponent on the same night.
Sambath showed exceptional skill in his match. Despite facing formidable Chinese fighter Carlos Su, known for his powerful punches, kicks and knees — and possessing a superior physical build and height — Sambath knocked him down within just one minute of the first round, forcing the referee to give a standing count as Su’s nose bled heavily.
After the count, Sambath continued to press home his attack relentlessly, using strong punches that left Su’s face covered in the blood flowing from his nose, as well as a cut on his mouth. By the end of the full three rounds, the Chinese fighter’s face was visibly swollen, and the judges declared Pich Sambath the winner in decisive fashion.
This victory was especially emotional for Sambath, who said he had struggled with the unfamiliar Chinese cuisine, which affected his energy levels.
“I didn’t feel strong because we mostly ate vegetables and had little rest,” he explained.
“But I gave everything I had to win this fight,” he added.
Sambath also offered encouragement to his countrymen — Athitep, Sokhuch, and Yanut — who lost their bouts.
“To my teammates who fought here with me, don’t be discouraged. Let’s keep training harder for the pride of all Khmer fighters,” he said.
Athitep, a student of Sambath, lost on points to Chinese fighter Liu Junchao. He expressed deep regret, via social media.
“I’m sorry to my parents and all supporters. I didn’t perform well this time. I understand that people may be angry or disappointed, but I accept all the criticism,” he posted.
During the match, Athitep landed a solid elbow early in round one, causing a cut above Liu’s left eyebrow. Despite his effort to press forward for a knockout, Athitep’s stamina visibly dropped, making his strikes lose power. He was also given a yellow card in round three for kicking Liu’s groin twice, which drew a penalty.
After the bout, he explained his poor performance.
“I wasn’t feeling well — I had the flu and could barely breathe. My opponent wasn’t that strong, but because my health wasn’t good, my strikes lacked power. I want a rematch with him, especially if it can be held in Cambodia,” he said.
Sokhuch, also lost on points to Ji Duoyibu, but in a kickboxing (K-1) rules match. During round three, Sokhuch was knocked down and faced a standing count, although he had been rallying for a comeback. He later apologised to fans for the loss but acknowledged Ji’s skill.
“He seemed to read my timing, and his punches were sharper and faster. We couldn’t catch his rhythm. But if it were a Kun Khmer rules fight, it would be a different story. I’d like a rematch under Kun Khmer rules in Cambodia,” he said.
Yanut lost on points to Chinese fighter Qi Qiulan, while Chitra fought to a draw with Li Bolin.
Vannich, a young, defeated Wang Qinghan on points. She was so overwhelmed with joy after winning her first-ever international title in China that she broke down in tears.
