By Our Reporter
Shillong, Feb 16: Meghalaya’s rising combat sports talents Rishanskhem P Lipon and Damangpura L Mawlong brought laurels to the country after securing bronze medals at the 6th Kun Khmer World Championship held in Sihanoukville, Cambodia, from February 10 to 13.
The two fighters represented India under the banner of the KIF Kun Khmer Federation–India and trained under noted Muaythai and kickboxing exponent Babit Kharsahnoh, who is also the first professional Kun Khmer fighter from Meghalaya to compete in Cambodia in 2024. The Indian contingent was led by Vengatachalam Sarona Mahalingam, with Thomas Rangthaluh of Umling, Nongpoh in Ri-Bhoi district serving as the state chief.Rishanskhem, a resident of Nongmynsong Umkdait and a student of St Anthony’s Higher Secondary School, trains at the Tribal Combat Academy in Madanryting. He claimed the bronze medal in the -57kg semi-professional senior men’s category after an impressive campaign against seasoned international opponents.
Damangpura, who hails from Mairang, also delivered a commendable performance to finish third in the -60kg amateur senior men’s division, adding another bronze to India’s tally at the championship. Their achievement marks yet another milestone for Meghalaya’s growing presence in international combat sports.
