Vijender Singh’s six match unbeaten pro-boxing start will face a title challenge in the form of Australia’s Kerry Hope, who has vowed to end his golden streak. Fighting for the WBO Asia Pacific Super Middleweight title, the pugilists will lock horns in Delhi on July 1. This will also mark the Indian’s home debut, after making a seamless transition from the amateur circuit.
He said, “It's an absolute dream for me to fight in front of my home crowd and finally this moment is just a month away. I am eagerly waiting for my title fight wherein I will get a lot of support and cheer for my countrymen. I have put in a lot of hardwork in the last 6 knockout wins and I am gearing up to remain unbeaten in my seventh fight and win the first big Pro Title for my country.”
The bout originally scheduled for July 11, had to be rescheduled to logistical issues. Kerry has a wealth of experience on his side, having turned pro 12 years ago, as compared to Vijender’s one. Sounding confident of ending the Haryana boxers winning streak, Kerry said, “I'm looking forward to the big title fight in India. Six before me have tried and failed to beat Vijender so now. I will finally end his hope of winning a title. Everyone who has gone into the ring with him seem like they are a rabbit in headlights.”
He further added, “I have seen nothing from Vijender Singh that worries me or causes any sleepless nights so I am fully confident going into the fight and ready to knock him out. I hope that his chin is ready for the punches that I will be landing on them because for once, he will be put under a real test by me. I've been a pro fro 12 years, Vijender for not even one. I will hand his a** to him.”
Earlier last week the Internaitonal Boxing Association announced that professional boxers will be allowed to paritcipate in the Olympics. Harbouring another medal hope in Rio, Vijender will be participating in pro qualifiers in Venzuela next month. However, he can only make the 75 kg Olympic cut, if Vikas Krishnan fails to qualify in June’s final qualifier.
