World Lethwei Championship sets sights on Cambodia

After eight successful events in its home country of Myanmar, upstart martial arts promotion World Lethwei Championship (WLC) has set its sights on holding its first international event later this year, with Cambodia among the contenders for hosting duties.

Started in Myanmar to promote the national martial art of lethwei, World Lethwei Championship has proven to be an important cultural export for the country, with a broadcast reach of 100 million people across 60 countries able to learn about the rich traditions and history of Myanmar. They now want to do the same in Cambodia, where Kun Khmer boxing has a strong following but is not widely recognised internationally.

WLC CEO Gerald Ng elaborated on the decision to focus on Cambodia, “Cambodian fans have shown incredible support to WLC’s efforts and have been some of the most passionate fans in the world. We want to be able to channel that passion to put on an incredible event in Cambodia and showcase the culture of Cambodia to the world!”

Ng explained that should they hold the event in Cambodia, the event will feature the traditional outfit and traditional orchestra of the host country. The event will also feature a mix of lethwei and kun khmer boxing matches, highlighting the martial arts of both countries.

Ng added, “With our broadcast on UFC Fight Pass and other partners, we are able to showcase both lethwei and kun khmer boxing together for the first time! Imagine tuning in to World Lethwei Championship and getting to discover two new martial arts! We are revolutionising the martial arts world and how it consumes content!”

WLC already has a sizeable Cambodian contingent in its roster, headlined by WLC’s female fighter of the year for 2018, Nou Srey Pov. Luminaries like Rin Saroth, Roeung Sophorn and Morn Samet have also fought under the promotion.

A broadcast partner is already in the works, and some of the countries top brands have expressed interest in being a part of this ambitious endeavor. The event is expected to take place in the first quarter of 2020 and likely held in Phnom Penh. More details will be revealed in the coming months. – World Lethwei Championship.