Thun Sophea

Thun Sophea (Khmer: ធន់ សុភា), born in 1979, is a retired professional kickboxer from Svay Rieng. Renowned as the 2006 Cambodian Television Network Traditional Khmer Kickboxing champion, Thun Sophea honed his skills at the Ministry of Defense Boxing Association under the guidance of Chhit Sarim, the same trainer who coached Cambodian champion Eh Phouthong at the Ministry of Defense Boxing Club.

Once regarded as Cambodia’s premier kickboxer, Thun Sophea boasts victories over every notable Cambodian fighter, including the likes of Sen Bunthen, Vorn Viva, Meas Chantha, Chey Kosal, and Outh Phouthang.In the early 2000s, Thun Sophea secured significant championship titles: In 2000, he defeated Nuon Sorya, claiming the TV3 belt.

2002 saw him triumph over Chey Kosal, earning him the TV5 belt. In 2006, Thun Sophea emerged victorious against Meas Chantha, clinching the CTN belt.His prowess in the 65 kg weight division was evident in 2007 when he attained the top rank, surpassing Meas Chantha and Pao Puot.

Thun Sophea’s illustrious career includes notable victories over opponents such as Sen Bunthen, a win against Ugandan boxer Muhammed Nsugbuga in a first-round TKO by low kicks in October 2009, and triumphs over veterans like Vouey Sothun and foreign contenders like English fighter Jason Woodham and French boxer Adil Khodja.

In 2011, Thun Sophea achieved recognition as one of Cambodia’s highest-paid athletes, alongside Chhunly Pagenburg, earning a salary of US$30,000.

Post-retirement, Thun Sophea transitioned into the roles of referee and head coach of the Ministry of National Defense boxing team. Among his notable students are Lorn Panha, Bun Sothea, Thun Phanith, and Thun Rithy.

As the current coach of the Ministry of National Defense gym, Thun Sophea is dedicated to training 100 students daily in Khmer martial arts, with an existing routine of instructing 50 students each day.

One of his coaching highlights includes Bun Sothea’s victory in December 2019, where Bun Sothea defeated the formidable Sok Thy of Banteay Meanchey by decision, scoring two knockdowns in the fourth round. Sok Thy, a 2018 National Kun Khmer champion and a titleholder at Bayon and PNN stadium, succumbed to Thun Sophea’s skilled coaching.

Championships and Accomplishments

Pradal Serey

+ 2000 TV3 Championship
+ 2002 TV5 Championship
+ 2006 CTN Championship