The International Boxing Association (IBA) has decided to donate US$ 50,000 as a first step to develop boxing in Sri Lanka.

Based on the success of the first step, it is hoped to increase it to 100,000 US dollars from next year (2024), IBA President Umar Kremlev, who arrived in Sri Lanka on a short visit, said at a press conference on Monday.

Boxing Association of Sri Lanka (BASL) President Dian Gomes, said the international boxing delegation including IBA President Umar Kremlev, met the Minister of Sports, Minister Roshan Ranasinghe and engaged in a successful discussion on the problems of boxing in Sri Lanka.

For the discussion held with the Minister of Sports, Roy Levesta Jones Jr (Former World Heavy Weight Champion and Olympic Medalist), Zsolt Barna (IBA Official), Alisa Shcherbachenya - (IBA Officials), BASL President Dian Gomes, Secretary to the Sports Ministry K. Mahesan and Director General Sports Dr. Shemal Fernando participated.

In this discussion between the two parties, the IBA President has assured the Sports Minister that an international level boxing training centre can be built in Sri Lanka.

Since the climate of Sri Lanka is suitable for any country, IBA President said that Sri Lanka is recommended to hold international level boxing tournaments.

Besides, he said, it is the intention of IBA to popularize Professional Boxing.

The IBA President said that the foremost responsibility of the International Boxing Assocation is to develop the sport day by day in every country of the world where boxing is practiced and under this, 100 schools having boxing in Sri Lanka and 30 newly identified schools will be provided with the necessary facilities for boxing.

Meanwhile, Gomes said he was happy that he has been able to advance the sport of boxing in Sri Lanka to the national and international level and introduce many sports men and women to the international level. (Susil Premalal / Pix: Kithsri De Mel)