Maeun Mekhea

Maeun Mekhea (Khmer: ម៉ឺន មេឃា), officially Ekh Virekkamchhitphouthong, born in 2001 in Koh Kong Province, is a Cambodian professional Kun Khmer fighter and Kick Boxer renowned for his exceptional skills and remarkable track record in the sport. Mekhea has garnered recognition for his confident fighting style and finely combined techniques.

Early Life and Background

Born 2001 into a family deeply rooted in Khmer martial arts, Maeun Mekhea is the second child of Kun Khmer legend Eh Phouthong, who is now a trainer and Mrs. Sor Somaly, who is also a trainer and referee for the Khmer Boxing Federation. Growing up in Neang Kok Village, Bak Klong Commune, Mondul Seima District, Koh Koh Province, Mekhea was exposed to the atmosphere of boxing training from a very young age. Despite the initial encouragement to focus on academics, Mekhea’s interest in Khmer martial arts led him to pursue training at his father’s gym. By the age of 10, he embarked on his journey as a Kun Khmer boxer, facing both the challenges of training and academics simultaneously. Two other siblings of Mekhea, and Eh Yanuth (oldest sister) and Eh Amarin (younger brother) are also talented Kun Khmer Fighters.

SEA Games Success

Maeun Mekhea’s dedication and perseverance bore fruit as he carved out a name for himself in the world of Kun Khmer. Juggling numerous competitions alongside his academic pursuits, Mekhea’s reputation continued to soar. His achievements include clinching medals and belts, earning a coveted spot on the national Wushu team, and notably, seizing a gold medal at the 31st SEA Games in Vietnam. Furthermore, his stellar performance at the SEA Games 2023, hosted by Cambodia, saw him clinch yet another gold medal in Vovinam, triumphing in the Men’s –65 kg category after a hard-fought victory over Thai fighter Chainarong Yawanophat in the final¹.

Achievements and Future Goals

As a role model for the next generation of Kun Khmer fighters, Mekhea encourages aspiring athletes to train diligently, uphold good discipline and morals, and focus on their competition. Recognizing the demanding nature of the sport, he emphasizes the importance of hard work, time, and dedication for success in the field.

In his latest Kickboxing triumph on 3 March 2024, Mekhea his mastery, engaging in a fierce battle against a formidable Georgian fighter, Mekhea claimed a TKO victory after his opponent forfeit the match due to right shoulder injury.

On March 31, 2024, Mekhea claimed the title of PNN Kun Khmer Super Strike Champion by delivering a knockout blow to his long-standing rival, Long Benloeun, midway through the second round. The victory was particularly exhilarating, given Long Benloeun’s reputation as a formidable Kun Khmer fighter who had previously left Mekhea with a lasting reminder of their encounters—a curvy, albeit visible, scar from a broken nose.

Maeun Mekhea stands as a promising figure in Cambodian Kun Khmer boxing, carrying on the legacy of his father while striving to make a significant impact on the international stage. His dedication to the sport and commitment to promoting Khmer martial arts reflect not only his personal journey but also the rich tradition of Cambodian Martial arts.