Controversy Arises Over Gender Identity in Upcoming Fight. Japanese kickboxer Panchan Rina ignited controversy days before her scheduled match against Thai microweight champion “Amp The Rocket” Suwanan Boonsorn by questioning her opponent’s gender identity.
Gender Confusion in Japanese MMA
Panchan, who boasts a professional record of 19 wins, one loss and one draw across kickboxing, posted a message on social media stating that she did not care whether Boonsorn’s “heart is male or female,” but requested that Boonsorn shave her beard for fight night.
The post provoked swift criticism from fans and fellow fighters. Commenters noted that Boonsorn, born June 14, 1996 in Bangkok, is registered as female with the United Arab Emirates Jiu-Jitsu Federation, which requires athletes to present passports at weigh-in.