Online feud spills into ring as political commentator wins kickboxing bout

KUALA LUMPUR: Political commentator Ang Woei Shang secured a victory over former DAP member Hew Kuan Yau in a kickboxing match on November 8, intertwining their online quarrel with the ring. Ang showcased his dominance from the first bell, relentlessly attacking and causing Hew to stumble multiple times. The bout, originally set for three rounds, concluded early due to Hew's inability to defend himself, according to Sin Chew Daily.

The event unfolded during the Strikezone Showdown at AEON Wangsa Maju. Both participants arrived on schedule; Ang's entrance elicited cheers from the audience, while Hew's entry spurred shouts of "Hew Kuan Yau, stop hiding!" that were met with laughter. The match adhered to kickboxing regulations, permitting punches and kicks but disallowing elbow and knee strikes, as well as grappling.

Hits to the face or upper body earned one point, whereas head or upper body kicks were worth two points. The contest was officiated by a referee and three judges. MCA deputy president Datuk Dr Mah Hang Soon was also in attendance. Hew had previously declared his participation in the November 8 bout in Wangsa Maju, dismissing a proposed rematch in Penang on November 29.

Ang registered for the November 8 fight to demonstrate he was not evading the challenge, while keeping the Penang bout open unless both parties agreed otherwise. After the fight, Hew conceded that his loss was anticipated given his lack of professional experience and 16-year age gap to Ang. He emphasized the importance of perseverance and improvement.

Ang expressed hope that Hew would fulfill his commitment to a rematch on November 29, acknowledging Hew's promise to step into the ring. However, Ang urged Hew to refrain from casually challenging others in the future and to keep his promises.