Khov Chhay, president of the Khmer Boxing Federation (KBF) is maintaining his position and Kun Khmer competitions remain suspended across Cambodia.
He explained that at this critical time, all Cambodians — regardless of background — must unite in every possible way to support the frontline troops who are fighting to repel Thai aggressors from the Kingdom’s territory.
This reaffirmation of the decision came after some boxers and clubs asked to reopen so they could earn income to support themselves and their families, who are facing financial hardship.
Some combat-sports content creators also called on the federation and relevant stakeholders to resume competitions, following the federation’s December 7 decision to suspend them during the period when Cambodia is subjected to military aggression.
The owner of a Kun Khmer Facebook page posted the following message.
“As someone who reports on Kun Khmer, I respectfully request His Excellency Khov Chhay, president of the Khmer Boxing Federation, to reopen Kun Khmer arenas, because judging from the current Thai invasion, this war does not seem likely to end anytime soon,” he wrote.
“Some boxers who are under contract may be less affected, but many others without contracts are facing serious difficulties. Without an income, it is difficult to support the nation,” he added.
Chhay did not agree with this proposal.
In a response, posted last night, December 16, Chhay stated that the KBF — together with sponsors, television station owners and development partners — jointly agreed to suspend all Kun Khmer boxing nationwide starting December 7, during the period when Cambodia is facing aggression from the Siamese (Thai) military.
“At this time, as Cambodian citizens, we must unite in every ideology, every image and every means to support our frontline heroic troops in their fight to drive the invading aggressors completely from our land,” he said,
He asked for understanding from all stakeholders in the Kun Khmer sector, who are being affected by the temporary suspension of boxing activities during this necessary period.
“I call upon all our male and female boxers to remain patient and continue training diligently to maintain their performance, and to continue trusting in our government, which will defeat the invading enemy both on the battlefield and through diplomacy, bring an end to this war of aggression and restore normal livelihoods in the near future,” he said.
Following Chhay’s response, several differing opinions emerged. Some suggested that competitions should continue as normal but be suspended only in provincial areas, while others proposed temporarily sending boxers abroad to compete. However, the majority of opinions supported the suspension of competitions.
Boxer Bun Sothea commented on Chhay’s post.
“I support the boss (Khov Chhay). Suspending for now is good — the nation is more important! Right now, let’s follow national news first. Once the country is stable and safe, then competitions can resume,” he said.
“Let’s rest for a while. Displaced civilians and frontline soldiers are suffering far more than we are. I wish displaced brothers and sisters and frontline troops good health and success against the invading Siamese enemy,” added Sothea, who is also a soldier.
