KUCHING: Two of Sarawak’s mixed martial artists had a creditable outing at the first Asia MMA Championship 2023 in Bangkok, Thailand recently.
Both only 21 years old, Pang Sze Teng won silver in the women’s category and Teo Zhi Hao the bronze in the men’s group.
Pang went all the way to the final, only to eventually lose to an exponent from China while Teo was stopped in the semifinals by a Singaporean.
Coach Tsan Nieng Khai was satisfied with their performance considering that they were up against more experienced MMA fighters.
“I have to say both of them gave their best against their heavyweight opponents because I did not disclose who they were up against at that time, as I do not want them to feel nervous,” he said.
Tsan said both trained under him right after the Covid-19 pandemic.
“While under training, we sent them to various competitions such boxing and Muay Thai to hone their skills,” he told a press conference at the MMA Sports Hub (SMASH) here yesterday.
Meanwhile, Pang was elated at winning her first international medal as she “did not expect to win”.
“It was my first international competition, and all I thought about at that time was to give my very best,” she said.
Teo, on the other hand, despite being disappointed at being stopped in the last four, said he would view the outing as experience and improve his skills.
“I wished I could have done more, I have to say I am disappointed with myself but that is okay.
“I will continue to train harder and perform better in the next tournament,” he said.
Tsan, meanwhile, assured he would continue to send his charges to international tournaments.
“One thing about martial arts, exposure is important to improve their skills and abilities.
“The more international exposure they have, the better they will get,” he added.
Pang and Teo were the only representatives from Malaysia at the Bangkok championship held from Aug 18-20.
