Keo Rumchong

Keo Rumchong (Khmer: កែវ រំចង់), born on January 7, 1988, in Battambang Province, is a retired Cambodian professional Kun Khmer fighter, affectionately known as “the relentless ‘Tiger of Battambang'”. Famed for his aggressive and fearless approach in the ring, Rumchong carved out a legacy that transcended borders. Over the course of his illustrious career, he showcased an unwavering dedication to perfection, garnering acclaim not only in his homeland but also on the international stage.  

Journeying into the World of Kun Khmer

Rumchong’s odyssey into the realm of Kun Khmer commenced at the tender age of five. He was born into a lineage steeped in martial arts tradition, with his father, Keo Sam Ang, serving as a trainer beside his job as theater actor and several ancestors distinguished as boxers. Despite this legacy, Rumchong initially encountered resistance from his father regarding his foray into Kun Khmer. It wasn’t until he emerged victorious in his first match at the age of 16 that his father acknowledged his dedication to the sport. Even then, concerns lingered regarding Rumchong’s safety.

However, after an impressive streak of 12 undefeated bouts, many culminating in decisive TKO victories, Rumchong’s prowess could not be denied. His journey took him beyond the confines of his native land, as he ventured to Phnom Penh, delving deeper into the world of Kun Khmer and etching his name among the elite fighters of Cambodia as he swiftly ascended to become a multiple-time Bayon TV Kun Khmer champion.

Venturing Beyond Borders: Keo Rumchong’s Global Impact

Renowned as a legend within his homeland, Rumchong expanded his horizons by participating in international competitions. Venturing onto the prestigious Thai Fight promotion, he showcased his skills under their distinctive Kard Chuek ruleset, facing formidable opponents like Yodsanklai Fairtex and Iquezang Kor.Rungthanakeat.

On October 24, 2015, Keo Rumchong encountered a controversial loss to Iquezang Kor. Rungthanakeat at THAI FIGHT: 1st Round in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. This marked the beginning of a trilogy of fights between the two. Following a triumph over Maung Jor of Myanmar at THAI FIGHT: 2nd Round on November 21, 2015, Rumchong earned the opportunity for a rematch with Iquezang. Their second clash concluded with the Cambodian securing a decision victory at THAI FIGHT Count Down on December 31, 2015.

In a significant match, Keo Rumchong faced Ukrainian Sasha Moisa in the 2018 Thai Fight Kard Chuek 70kg King’s Cup Tournament semi-final at THAI FIGHT Saraburi on November 24, 2018. Despite being the shorter fighter, Rumchong succumbed to Moisa’s powerful punches, resulting in three knockdowns and a second-round technical knockout.

On November 24, 2019, Rumchong contested against Omar Samb for the MTGP Super Welterweight -75kg Championship at Muay Thai Grand Prix 31 Bataclan in Paris, concluding with a fourth-round technical knockout in favor of Samb.

In 2023, Keo Rumchong faced a notable turn of events as he was excluded from the national team in the 81kg weight class in favor of Prom Samnang. Despite this setback, Rumchong expressed his desire to represent Cambodia before his retirement.