Mab Sokhouy is the first ever Cambodian to claim a title at the Absolute Pro Championship, part of the AFG Open Championship. Jiu-Jitsu federation
Cambodian Brazilian jiu-jitsu athlete Mab Sokhouy has become the first ever Cambodian to claim a championship belt at the Absolute Pro Championship, part of the AFG Open Championship 2025. She secured the historic win after triumphing in back-to-back matches held at Rangsit University in Bangkok, Thailand, on May 17-18.
Competing in the Absolute Pro Division — an open-weight category allowing fighters of all weight classes — Mab Sokhouy was the smallest and lightest of all the female participants. Despite this, she performed impressively.
In her semi-final, Sokhouy faced Lucy Greenway, a black belt holder from Wales. She scored a victory over this formidable opponent on points after a full eight-minute match.
That win propelled her into the final round, where she met top Malaysian grappler, Mia Foo. After another intense eight-minute bout, the Cambodian was declared the winner on points, in an electrifying decision that earned her the championship belt.
Her victory in the Absolute Pro Championship at the AFG Open Championship 2025 shocked and excited everyone attending the tournament — as this marks the first time a Cambodian jiu-jitsu athlete has ever won a belt.
She defeated several much heavier opponents to earn her open-class belt. Jiu-Jitsu federation
The Cambodian Jiu-Jitsu Federation expressed joy at her win, hailing it an outstanding achievement which was the result of Sokhouy's hard work and determination.
“This is Cambodia’s first AFG championship belt, showcasing Mab Sokhouy’s technical skill and unwavering dedication on the international stage,” said a statement from the federation.
“We congratulate Mab Sokhouy on this remarkable achievement and are deeply proud of her efforts representing Cambodia in such an extraordinary way!” it added.
Cambodia sent three male and three female fighters to compete at the competition. With almost 1,000 grapplers participating, it is the largest Brazilian jiu-jitsu tournament in Southeast Asia.
Her historic win for Cambodia was truly a remarkable milestone.
The Cambodian Jiu-Jitsu Federation sent three men and three women to compete in Bangkok. Jiu-Jitsu federation
