A bout from a previous 'Cambodia Sena Ek Kun Khmer' event. The promoter has asked to run these events independently of the local governing body. KKIF
A split has emerged between the domestic and international federations that govern the sport of Kun Khmer, with the two bodies divided over a third party request to promote events.
Srey Chanthorn, the head of Kun Khmer International Fight (KKIF) promotions has asked permission to promote domestic and international fight nights, under the “Cambodia Sena Ek Kun Khmer” banner. He has received support from the international sporting body, but faces opposition from the domestic leadership.
Meam Ra, president of the Kun Khmer International Federation (KIF), believed that the new promotion would not infringe on the jurisdiction of either federation.
“As vice-president of the KIF – and well as the head of KKIF, Chanthorn has already been recognised. Therefore, he has the right to organize international matches in the country without any issue,” he told The Post.
Khmer Boxing Federation (KBF) president Khov Chhay, who administers the spot within Cambodia, saw the request differently, however.
Chhay explained that the request came in his capacity as the head of the KKIF, not as a representative of international body. Chanthorn also clearly stated his intention to separate from the KBF and organise matches independently.
In his formal request letter, Chanthorn wrote: “It is my honour to respectfully inform His Excellency, the president of the KBF, that the organisation of the friendship-based domestic and international Kun Khmer boxing event called 'Cambodia Sena Ek Kun Khmer' organised by KKIF is not under the supervision or leadership of the KBF.”
“As per the above, I kindly request that His Excellency allow the KKIF to organise the event independently of the KBF,” he added.
Khov Chhay (second from left) and Srey Chanthorn (second from right) attend a solidarity dinner with former Prime Minister Hun Sen last November, during happier times. Chanthorn FB
Chhay could not agree with the request, explaining to the media that it is his federation’s responsibility to manage all domestic competitions.
“We are continuing discussions with the KKIF and hope that we will reach an agreement on certain conditions. They cannot operate outside the leadership of the KBF,” he explained.
He also expressed that Chanthorn reconsider his position, so as to avoid any penalties from the federation.
“We do not want any penalties to be imposed on our development partners, but their actions must comply with the legal regulations of the KBF, the rightful holder of the traditional Khmer boxing style,” he emphasised.
“The term 'Kun Khmer' belongs to the Khmer people. Therefore, our federation has the responsibility of preserving and developing Kun Khmer both domestically and internationally. Thus, no related activities can be carried out without the agreement of the KBF. We will continue to discuss the issue to reach a mutual understanding and hope to collaborate with our partners to further develop the sport,” he added.
