Professional Indian boxer and 2012 Olympic bronze medallist, Vijender Singh will be fighting for the World Boxing Organisation (WBO) Asia belt on June 11. The 33-year old’s promoter Francis Worren from Queensberry Promotions revealed the date yesterday.
The WBO has promised a ‘historic event for India’ as professional boxing looks to leave a major mark on a potential market. Worren said, “Right now is the best time for him to do something in India, I feel. He’s fighting well, and also fighting in front of a home crowd will help the sport commercially. Prior to the June event he will have three fights in the UK, a small break before he fight for the middleweight or super-middleweight category.”
Vijender is currently unbeaten, since he made his pro debut, last year. WBO representative at the Indian Boxing Council, John Duggan, added, “We are glad that we can be doing this fight so soon. Vijender’s rise has been phenomenal. We had actually planned this fight for September and not June. But, seeing how well he has settled, we have pegged back the dates. If all goes well, we can come back in September also.”
Worren added, “Vijender is currently training in the UK, and he’s been away from home for a long time now. It’s great that he will finally have the opportunity to come back home. He is an accomplished amateur boxer, who is making the transition perfectly. We believe he could be fighting for world titles soon as well, not just regional belts.”
The July/August month is also close to a null on the UK boxing calendar, which acts as a perfect fit for Vijender and team. WBO has also clearly stated their interest in India, wanting to invest more via Vijender’s new found international fame.
On his first visit to India, Duggan hoped pro boxing can capitalise on India’s natural talent pool. He said, “I am very impressed with the talent India has, now it’s only a question whether the new body can govern well. I’m quite sure it will as well.”
The Indira Gandhi indoor stadium will be hosting this memorable bout. It can seat close to 20,000 members, easily qualifying it for a WBO-recognised event.
