Myanmar Lethwei fighters claimed championship belts after defeating opponents from Iran, the United States, and Cambodia at the World Championship Lethwei event.
The event, organized by the Myanmar Martial Arts Group under the supervision of the Department of Sports and Physical Education and the Myanmar Traditional Boxing Federation, was held at 2 pm yesterday at Theinbyu Gymnasium in Yangon.
In the international five-round 80-kilogramme event, triple-crown MMWC champion Tun Tun Min faced Iranian Muaythai champion K One. K One attacked Tun Tun Min aggressively in the first round, but in the second round, Tun Tun Min’s combinations of punches and headbutts left K One unable to continue. Tun Tun Min successfully defended his championship belt. The two had previously fought at the border and drew.
In the 66-kilogramme event, Kayin Victorious Flag Award winner Super Yay Chan fought American BKFC champion Mark Antabar. Although Super Yay Chan was shorter and nine years younger, he overwhelmed Mark Antabar in the first round with powerful kicks and punches, forcing his opponent to seek respite. Finally, a heavy punch floored Mark Antabar, who could not continue, giving Super Yay Chan a knockout victory.
In the 63-kilogramme event, Kayin Victorious Flag Award winner Tun Min Naing faced Khmer champion Fan Krian of Cambodia, who is nine years older. Although the two exchanged equally in the first round, Tun Min Naing’s punches and kicks forced Fan Krian to request a break. Shortly afterwards, Tun Min Naing landed decisive punches, and Fan Krian could not continue, conceding defeat in the first round.
In the domestic five-round 54-kilogramme event, Golden Belt champion Salai Thang Khwi Shein beat Golden Belt champion Thein Soe in the second round.
In the 64-kilogramme event, Kayin Victorious Flag Award winner Naing Win Tun and Golden Belt champion Thet Win Aung fought to a draw after five rounds. In the 61-kilogramme event, Sky Net Golden Flag Award winner Saw Min Min and Golden Belt champion Thway Thit Maung also fought to a draw after five rounds.
After the event, officials presented prizes to the winners. — Arkar Linn/KZL
