In an exciting development for the combat sports scene, veteran boxer Long Chin is gearing up for a championship bout against formidable title-holder Chhut Sereyvanthorng at PNN Arena as the main event in this  Sunday afternoon’s “GANZBERG Kun Khmer Super Strike” event. The match will determine the holder of the 60-kilogramme belt.

SEA Games gold medallist Lao Chitra will also compete at the event, in a marathon bout for the 67-kilogramme title against three international contenders.

This matchup between Chin and Sereyvanthorng is highly anticipated, as the two have faced off four times in the past. Chin won the first match, held in August 2018 at the Southeast Asian arena, but has failed to find a way to claim victory in their three subsequent matches.

Despite his past challenges, Chin is optimistic as he prepares for this latest opportunity, claiming to have trained over 100 per cent in anticipation of the bout. He expressed his determination to make the most of the opportunity and claim the championship belt.

“I've had limited chances to compete at this level,” he said, adding, “With this opportunity, I've pushed my training beyond 100 per cent. In previous sessions, I was only training at about 80-90 per cent, but now I’m giving it my all.”

He remained wary of Sereyvanthorng’s fearsome abilities, acknowledging that his opponent has improved in both speed and strength. 

Nonetheless, he was confident, saying, “While I have concerns about his speed and technique, I will give my utmost when we step into the ring. I believe in my ability to win 70 per cent of the time.”

Sereyvanthorng views Chin as a worthy challenger, and has also been training rigorously for the bout. He is excited about the competition, noting that regardless of the outcome, both fighters are Khmer, making the event a celebration of their heritage.

In a recent video posted after a training session, Sereyvanthorng remarked, “Whether I win or Chin does, we are both Khmer. This matchup means a lot to us, and we are both eager to claim victory.”

In addition to the main event, 2023 SEA Games gold medalist Chitra will compete in the 67-kilogramme weight class against Iranian fighters Amen Moradi and Sameen Moradi, as well as Thai athlete Balan Sab. The draw will take place on Saturday, with the winners of the preliminary rounds progressing to the finals in a best-of-five format.

Chitra expressed his determination, saying, “I have yet to claim a 67-kilogramme title, but I am well-prepared for this match. I hope to perform well, but I understand that each of my opponents poses a unique challenge,”

Fans are eagerly awaiting this Sunday’s event, which promises to be a thrilling showcase of skill and determination in the world of Kun Khmer.