Back in the ring and fighting to be remembered

After years in the shadows, proponents of yutakhun khom are refusing to let their ancient martial art be forgotten

In a ring at a Phnom Penh cultural centre this week, Chan Rothana – a rising star in Asia’s mixed martial arts ONE Championship series – provided a kinetic glimpse into ancient history.

Covered in a sheen of sweat, he performed a series of vicious kicks and elbow and knee strikes before wrapping his legs around a sparring partner’s neck in a potentially deadly choke hold.

According to the young warrior’s father and instructor, Chan Boeunthoeun, the fighting style, known as yutakhun khom, dates back thousands of years and was perfected by Angkorian warriors.

read more: http://www.phnompenhpost.com/post-weekend/back-ring-and-fighting-be-remembered