PHNOM PENH: Khov Chhay, president of the Khmer Boxing Federation (KBF), has stepped forward to defend the Kun Khmer fighters, coaches and officials who recently came under heavy criticism from certain fans and social media circles. He shared his thoughts late on Thursday night (Oct 30), via social media.
Chhay described the critics as “toxic individuals” who attack Kun Khmer athletes out of jealousy and resentment, simply because they don’t benefit personally from the sport. He accused them of using harsh criticism to attract likes and shares, exploiting fighters’ struggles and the reputation of Kun Khmer for their own online popularity.
“Today, I saw harsh criticism from certain toxic individuals directed at our Kun Khmer fighters. I urge boxers and coaches from all clubs to not pay attention to the words of those who gain nothing from Kun Khmer,” he said.
“When they see Kun Khmer thriving — fighters, gyms and clubs all improving — they become jealous. So they lash out, criticise viciously, just for likes and shares or to promote their businesses. They’re willing to use others’ pain and the entire Kun Khmer community as a stepping stone. As long as I am president of the federation responsible for Kun Khmer in this country, these people will never succeed in their intentions,” he added.
He also revealed details of upcoming international events, which will see the Kingdom’s traditional martial art on display in at least three continents outside Asia. Supplied
Chhay offered a sharp rebuke to those behind the online attacks.
“Remember this — those who only criticise never grow. Those who grow don’t waste time criticising. People who only criticise others never have time to do anything productive, while those who are busy doing real work don’t have time to criticise,” he said.
He called on all fighters, coaches, gym owners and those involved in Kun Khmer to stay positive, continue their work, and focus on building skills, strengthening clubs and preparing for more competitions, both domestically and abroad.
“To all Kun Khmer athletes — train hard and prepare yourselves for the upcoming dry season. Starting this November, the number of events, both major and regional, will increase to nearly 30 per week, including those at television studios and in provinces across the country,” he said.
In long post, Chhay also revealed the details of several planned international competitions.
In November, one Kun Khmer team will compete in Japan, another in England and two in France. In December, one team will travel to China and another to Australia.
In January next year, teams will compete in Malaysia, Indonesia and Japan. The following month, teams will go to France, the US and Italy.
In March, fighters will compete in China, Hong Kong and the Philippines, while April will see an event in China and three in the US. Finally, he added, May 2026 will feature events in Germany and South Africa.
“These are special opportunities — those who work hard will get them. Those with the skills will earn the chance to get on the plane,” he said.
“If Kun Khmer isn’t growing, why are fan numbers increasing? Why are there more events? Why are companies spending more money to sponsor Kun Khmer programmes?” he asked rhetorically.
“If Kun Khmer wasn’t advancing, why would so many foreign countries want to collaborate with us to host events in their nations? Why would sponsors be willing to spend US$40,000 to US$100,000 per trip for fighters to compete abroad, and even encourage more frequent participation?
“We must all keep striving together — our boat is sailing fast, smoothly along the current, with the wind at our backs. No one can stop our journey now. Our speed of progress is already making our rivals nervous” he concluded. - The Phnom Penh Post/ANN
