Abiral Ghimire knocks out reigning world champion Mathon Choinard in Japan

Aichi Prefecture, Japan, September 6, 2026 — Nepali kickboxer Abiral Ghimire defeated reigning world champion Mathon Choinard of France by knockout at the Hit Kick Boxing–59th International Sports Kick Boxing Federation World Championship in Japan on Saturday.

Ghimire secured the victory during the main event at Kariya Hall in Nagoya, producing a powerful performance against Choinard, who has held the world title since 2025.

Known as the “Himalayan Cheetah,” Ghimire knocked out his French opponent in the second minute of the second round with a powerful punch.

The victory is another significant achievement in Ghimire’s international kickboxing career. He has competed in 29 international tournaments and recorded 21 victories, with 20 of those wins coming by knockout.

The Nepali kickboxer has increasingly established himself as one of Nepal’s prominent combat sports athletes, representing the country in international competitions.

Following his latest victory, Ghimire also expressed his condolences over the loss of lives in the recent Bhotekoshi flood in Rasuwa.

Speaking to the state-owned RSS news agency, he said he was saddened by the tragedy and expressed his commitment to supporting people affected by the disaster.

His victory over a reigning world champion adds another major result to his career and further strengthens his reputation as one of Nepal’s leading international kickboxers.