Thun Chantak (Khmer: ធន់ ចាន់តាក់), born in 1994 in Kampong Chhnang province, is a professional Kun Khmer fighter known by the nickname “Tor Rom Meas” which translates to “the Golden Fur Lion.” He has won multiple championship titles, including the 60kg Leo Beer title and the 63.5kg Cambodia Beer title.
Chantak’s journey in Kun Khmer has not been without challenges. On June 12, 2021, he sustained severe injuries during a match against Mut Khlemkhmao at the Bayon Arena. Despite the injury, he fought until the end of the fifth round and won the match. He was immediately taken to the Cambodia-Soviet Friendship Hospital for treatment due to significant bleeding and suspected bladder rupture. His coach, Thun Sophea, appealed for financial assistance to cover medical expenses, highlighting the financial struggles fighters face when injured. Mut Khlemkhmao expressed regret over the incident and called for support for Chantak during his recovery. He also experienced some other injuries and was on and off the ring for sometimes.
Chantak has been involved in Kun Khmer for approximately nine years, enduring various hardships, including physical pain and criticism. He is the third of six siblings, born into a middle-class farming family in Kampong Chhnang province. Before entering the world of professional fighting, Chantak completed his education up to the 12th grade. He worked in Thailand for two years before returning to Cambodia to work in Phnom Penh while living with his brother.
Chantak’s passion for Kun Khmer led him to train at the Ministry of National Defense Boxing Club in 2016, often without his family’s knowledge. His dedication to the sport earned him recognition and support from his workplace, allowing him to balance work and training. His involvement in Kun Khmer became known to his family after he had participated in about ten matches. Despite facing numerous challenges, Chantak remained determined to pursue his childhood dream of becoming a professional fighter and soldier. Throughout his career, Chantak has achieved significant milestones, including winning multiple championship titles and several honorary awards. He has also been selected as an official within the Ministry of National Defense, fulfilling his childhood aspiration. Chantak hopes to compete internationally and gain further recognition, similar to some foreign fighters. He has also expressed a desire for his children to pursue Kun Khmer if they are passionate about it, believing that the sport can provide a positive future and steer them away from negative influences.boxing competitions at the 2023 SEA Games, hosted by Cambodia in Phnom Penh.
THUN CHANTAK |
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Born | 1994 |
From | Kampong Chhnang Province |
Nickname | Tor Rom Meas (the Golden Fur Lion) |
Height | 1.70m |
Weight | 67kg |
Style(s) |
Kun Khmer |
Stance |
Orthodox |
Kun Krou |
Entri Samdaeng Rith (Eagle showing off its Might) |
Boxing Gym |
RCAF – Ministry of N. Defense |
Trainer(s) |
Thun Sophea and Maeun Mekhea |
Years Active |
2017 – Present |
Fight Records |
|
TKO/Wins | N/A |
Last Updated | 02.02.2025 |
CAUTION: The fight records of Kun Khmer Fighters have been inconsistent across TV stations. Therefore, instead of relying on the records displayed by individual broadcasters, I maintain an independent tally. I add one to the total after each new fight to ensure consistency. |