NEW DELHI: India’s professional boxing star Vijender Singh will fight Russia’s Artysh Lopsan in his return to the ring after a year disrupted by COVID-19.
Vijender and Losan will square off on March 19 in a super middle-weight (76kg) showdown on the rooftop deck of the Majestic Pride Casino Ship in Panaji, Goa. Lopsan’s name was revealed at a press conference here.
“It wasn’t the easiest year and initially it took a while for the body to respond. But the last two months have been fabulous for me. Jai Bhagwan (2010 CWG bronze-medallist) helped me with my training here in Gurgaon. I was also in touch with (Manchester-based British trainer) Lee Beard for some online help,” Vijender told PTI on how he geared up for his return.
The 26-year-old Losan has fought six pro bouts, claiming four victories, including two knockouts. His last contest was in December 2020 against compatriot Yusup Magomedbekov, which he won via Technical Knockout.
Vijender, on the other hand, is unbeaten throughout his professional career. His record of 12-0 includes eight knockouts. The 2008 Beijing Olympics Bronze medallist defeated Ghana’s former Commonwealth champion Charles Adamu in Dubai to claim his 12th successive win in November 2019.
“Lee couldn’t be here because of COVID restrictions but he has been supportive and has been there online whenever I have needed advice. Jai, you can say, is my coach right now,” Vijender said about his longtime friend with whom he competed in the 2010 CWG in Delhi.
Lee has been Vijender’s trainer ever since he took the professional plunge in 2015. Jai is a serving police officer in Haryana and took leave to assist Vijender. He is a two-time Asian championship Bronze-winner and has competed alongside Vijender in several international and national amateur events.
Also, seasoned Indian boxer Neeraj Goyat will take on Sandeep Kumar (Super Welterweight) during the same the fight night. “(It) will be the co-main event for the night followed by Vijender’s much-awaited return to the ring,” said IOS Boxing Promotions’ Neerav Tomar said.
There will be six under-card fights as well.
Owing to social distancing guidelines, only 50 per cent of the general tickets and a limited 150 high-end tickets have been put on sale.
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