Popular Kun Khmer fighter rues loss by way of knee injury

FIGHTER Kim Veasna has expressed concerns that the two months of hard-earned popularity and fame that he has enjoyed since a spectacular win in November may be on the decline.

The well-known Cambodian was unlucky and suffered a serious injury in the first round of his January 14 Krud Kun Khmer match at the National Television of Cambodia (TVK) station against a wellregarded Thai boxer Luktavan Vi Orbun.

Veasna expressed deep regret at the loss, regarding it as an upset.

He said it was hard for him to accept the result, as he felt strong but lost to the light kicks of the Thai man.

“I am struggling to accept closure, as it is too soon. My injury was not serious, but my ligaments were cramped, and I was unable to rise to my feet and continue fighting,” he added.

Fighting in the 69kg weight class, Veasna was aggressive from the outset, controlling the match and piling pressure on his opponent. His relentless flurry of punches, kicks and elbows forced the Thai boxer to retreat, searching for relief from the attacks and putting him firmly on the defensive.

However, just as Veasna was focused on closing for the kill, a light defensive kick from Orbun landed on on his left knee. The kick appeared weak, but it sent Veasna crashing to the canvas, unable to rise.

“I have experienced this once before, while I was competing at the Bayon [TV] station. During that match, my opponent was landing some hard kicks up high, while his low kicks were just probing. Nevertheless, he found a crucial part of my knee, and my ligaments seized,” he explained.

The first round loss left Veasna concerned about his reputation. He rose to prominence after defeating highly regarded Thai boxer Payak Samui during on November 26 last year.

“I am worried that my popularity might decline because even though I have fought well for a long time, my left leg gave me trouble during the very first round. I apologise to all of my fans for being unable to do well this time. My knee ligaments seized, meaning I was unable to carry on. Believe me, I want the chance to avenge my loss and fight him again,” he said.

Svay Sovanarith, a match doctor for TVK, said Veasna’s injury was not very serious, and he expected him to recover very soon.

Mol Ny, who heads the station’s promotions team, told The Post on January 15 that the two men may meet again.

“In the early stages of the bout, it was clear that Veasna had gained the upper hand. We can safely say that his loss was an accident, or simply the result of a careless mistake,” he said.

“I don’t think a loss of this nature will harm his popularity. Veasna might compete with Orbun again. Let’s wait and see how he is feeling when he has recovered from his injuries,” he added.