The Golden Boy Kun Khmer 2025 event wrapped up successfully last night, with thrilling results: five Cambodian fighters each claimed a unique Golden Boy trophy, with only Lao Chetra losing, to a Spanish opponent.
Following the fights hosted by Town Arena in Phnom Penh’s Khan Kamboul on Thursday night, Tommy Kim (Kim Srun Kosal Kim Srunkosal), advisor to Town TV and head of the IPCC Cambodia branch, declared the event a major success. He explained that he had given his all to help write a new chapter in Kun Khmer history.
“Before the matches began, I wasn’t worried at all because I knew our Kun Khmer fighters would do well. I’d already announced that the Golden Boy Kun Khmer team had trained hard – this was our chance to show what we’ve got. And you saw how skilled the foreign fighters were this time – we were up against serious talent,” he told a post-event press conference.
“We’re proud of the victories, but they weren’t easy wins. If an opponent slipped up, that’s on them – but when they made a mistake, our fighters were ready to take the opportunity,” he added.
Tommy confirmed that Town Arena is planning an even bigger event.
“We still have an even stronger lineup waiting,” he promised.
Thursday night’s fights drew a huge crowd as six Cambodian fighters faced off against international opponents for Golden Boy Kun Khmer titles. The highlight was the fierce matchup between Thoeun Theara and world-ranked Ugandan fighter Amar Semata, which was intensely competitive.
Over three rounds, Theara performed exceptionally, overcoming Amar’s aggressive style. Despite Amar’s power and resilience, Thera’s speed and relentless attacks disrupted his rhythm. The Cambodian’s sharp hooks and knees left Amar visibly swollen on his face and head, leading to a unanimous points decision for Theara.
Meanwhile, Eh Amarinphounthong stopped Spanish fighter Javier Segura in the second round after four standing counts, winning the 66kg Golden Boy trophy.
His brother Maeun Meikhea nearly knocked out Mongolian fighter Bat Erdene in the first round, scoring two knockdowns. But the resilient Mongolian refused to go down, and in the last two rounds mounted a comeback that left both men exhausted. Still, Meikhea secured a points win and the 63.5kg title.
Chhut Serey Vannthong also delivered a spectacular performance, knocking out Spanish fighter Genis in round two. Chomroeun Kumkhmer edged out Maxiel Rayo of Spain on points in a hard-fought match, winning the 60kg title.
Only Chetra lost, falling on points to Jose Manuel of Spain.
During the award ceremony after the six fights, all the winning fighters, except Kunkhmer (who had a hand injury and couldn’t go on stage), expressed great joy. The Golden Boy Kun Khmer trophy was especially meaningful, designed in a distinct Khmer style with deep symbolism rooted in ancient Khmer martial arts, inspired by the carvings found on the walls of the Angkor temples.
“The trophy shows our national identity,” said Golden Boy winner Meikhea.
“I really wanted to finish [Erdene] in the first round, but I was too aggressive. If I’d picked my shots, maybe I could’ve knocked him out. Still, I got this beautiful trophy – and I truly love it. When I held it and looked at it, I realised how amazing it really is. This trophy captures the spirit of our national identity,” he shared.
