Cambodia Launches New Kickboxing Program to Enhance Athlete Capabilities

Phnom Penh, Cambodia – Despite the overall results of Cambodia securing one win and Japan two in the kickboxing competition at the KNOCK OUT 68 event held in Japan on September 5, 2026, Mr. Kim Srun Kosal (Tommy Kim), Secretary-General of the Cambodia Kickboxing Federation and a renowned Cambodian boxing promoter, stated that the participation of Cambodian boxers reflected a strong sporting spirit following the competition. Mr. Tommy Kim further added that this experience is the most valuable lesson for our athletes as they step onto an international arena with rules different from Kun Khmer. Concurrently, he announced the creation of a new Kickboxing program. The objective of establishing this new Kickboxing program, based on the spirit of 'get up where you fall,' is to enhance the capabilities of our athletes by addressing their shortcomings. This includes strengthening techniques and strategies by increasing a clearer understanding of Kickboxing rules and competition formats, which do not involve the use of elbows or throws like Kun Khmer. This program aims to build resilience through numerous local competitions, providing Cambodian athletes with regular opportunities to compete and develop their skills in preparation for future victories on the international stage. It will also open doors to the world through collaboration with major international organizations such as the WKN (World Kickboxing Network) and the IKC (International Kickboxing Council). Strengthening kickboxing capabilities will further boost opportunities for Cambodian athletes to compete for world-class belts. It is also worth noting that for the KNOCK OUT 68 kickboxing event held in Japan on September 5, 2026, Cambodia sent three top athletes to compete against strong Japanese fighters. As a result, Cambodian athletes achieved one win and two losses. E Ammarin Phuthong defeated Japanese fighter Terashima Hikaru in the second round. Meanwhile, Men Meakhya lost by knockout in the second round to Japanese fighter Rikito, and Koramach Chanreach lost by points to Japanese fighter Leona Petta.