In a powerful display of strength and skill, Cambodian fighter Thoeun Theara made headlines in South Korea by knocking out Brazilian champion Victor Teixeira in the third round. The intense bout attracted significant attention and excitement from the Cambodian community in Korea.

Teixeira, known for his formidable fighting skills, had previously defeated Thailand’s Kongthailand Kiatnavy by knockout in the second round during the ONE Friday Fight 20 in Bangkok in June last year. 

He met a different fate at the “Ganzberg Kun Khmer to the World Class” event, held in Ansan, South Korea on September 15.

Theara showcased his aggressive style, utilising his powerful punches and clinch techniques against Teixeira. Despite a few setbacks from the Brazilian’s strong counterattacks, Theara maintained his composure and continued to press his opponent.

In the final minute of the third round, Teixeira was knocked out cold moments after being stunned by a devastating left hook to the face. Despite being visibly rocked, the referee did not immediately count him out. Theara seized the opportunity to deliver a swift five-punch combination that rendered his opponent unconscious.

The dramatic finish drew a rapturous response from the largely Cambodian audience. The crowd celebrated Thara’s victory, making contributions to a prize fund and taking selfies with the fighter for over an hour.

Thara expressed his satisfaction with the win, acknowledging the challenge posed by the aggressive Brazilian.

“The fight was very intense because he’s a good fighter who landed several good hits on me, but I managed to close the distance and counter effectively,” he said.

“I honestly didn’t expect to knock him out because he is tough and resilient, but eventually, my punches landed heavily, and I’m thrilled with my performance in Korea. It’s wonderful to see so many Cambodians here supporting us and promoting Khmer boxing,” he added.

Phakdey Kunkhmer celebrates his victory in the four-man tournament event. Kunkhmer via FB

In some of the other bouts of the night – the first Kun Khmer event to be held in South Korea – fighter Phakdey Kunkhmer achieved a milestone, claiming his first title by winning a four-man tournament after knocking out compatriot Saom Vicheay in the final. Vicheay had previously won his bout against Korea’s Lee Sang Min by knockout in the second round.

In the closely contested semi, Kunkhmer defeated Brazilian Alexandre Parreira by default after Parreira exceeded the weight limit. The match, which was marked as a friendly bout, ended in a draw after three rounds of intense action.

Kunkhmer’s victory over Vicheay in the final round came through a relentless barrage of powerful knees and other strikes that ultimately led to Vicheay’s inability to continue.

In the other international friendlies, strongman Meun Mekkhea defeated South Korean fighter Kim Byung Soo with a knee strike, leading to a medical stoppage after the first round. 

Meun’s brother, Eh Amarin Phuthong, won on points against Australian Jerome Simbahan, and Long Achet claimed victory over South Korean Jaeho Kim with a lower leg kick in the first round.