The Khmer Boxing Federation (KBF) has finalised its decision to include prominent fighter Thoeun Theara, along with members of the “Eh” family of fighters, into the national Kun Khmer team for the first time. The squad will include is include female fighter Eh Yanut, Eh Virekkham Chit Pouthong (Maeun Meikhea) and Eh Ammarin Pouthong.

Eh Pouthong himself has been called to once again serve as national team coach, as they prepare for the 33rd SEA Games, set to be held in Thailand at the end of the year, explained KBF president Khov Chhay.

“We have observed that coach Pouthong, along with his students and children — such as Theara, Meikhea, Ammarin and Yanut — have all performed well in Thailand and built a strong reputation,” he said.

He highlighted Theara’s fame for previously holding a Thai Fight championship belt and Ammarin’s notable draw match against rising Thai star Nabil Anane in the ONE Championship.

“These achievements have already given our athletes a psychological advantage over foreign opponents,” he said.

He added that Pouthong, along with Theara, Meikhea and Ammarin, have a deep knowledge of Thai fighting styles and strategies, which is essential for defeating fighters from the neighbouring Kingdom in the upcoming games.

“Because of their strengths in these areas, we prioritised their selection. It is important and necessary for Khmer athletes to serve their nation and compete for medals,” he continued.

The “Eh” siblings, Eh Yanut, Eh Virekkham and Eh Ammarin, have been selected for the national Kun Khmer squad. Eh Yanut

Meikhea and Ammarin have both fought for Cambodia, as has their sister Yanut. Meikhea won gold at the 31st and 32nd games, while Ammarin won silver at the 31st.

Despite being a top fighter and multiple-time belt holder both at home and overseas, Theara has never competed for the national team. In 2024, he was selected to represent Cambodia at the Asian Mixed Martial Arts Championship, held in the Kingdom, but later withdrew citing health issues.

At the time, there were rumours about behind-the-scenes issues surrounding Theara’s absence from the national team, partly involving personal matters with his mentor and guardian, Pouthong, and tensions with some national sports officials who allegedly wanted to control him. It was speculated that Pouthong disagreed with the officials, resulting in Theara competing only in privately organised events.

Khov Chhay addressed the controversy.

“If you are a Khmer athlete who has competed extensively both at home and abroad but never serves on the national team, I don’t believe you are a good athlete. National duty must be fulfilled,” he said.

He urged all top-tier and famous athletes to join the national team.

Eh Pouthong and his wife pose with their daughter Yanut after a world championship win in the past. Eh Yanut

“Even if national duty does not pay as well as private events, bringing glory to the nation is valuable. And when medals are won, the government provides generous rewards,” he continued.

“Some athletes hesitate to join the national team, but national duty must be fulfilled. If you’re no longer part of the national selection, then I don’t believe you truly have the qualities of a national hero or a representative of the Khmer people.

“How can you be a role model if you don’t fulfil national obligations or join the national team? You’ll fight for money, but not for the nation? I strongly object to this. If this continues, the federation may impose disciplinary action in cases where athletes don’t have valid reasons for not participating,” he concluded.