Daily Mirror - Print Edition

Fight Night V Returns to thrill Sri Lanka

10 Jul 2024 - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}      

Coach Jeshan Nethiyanandan stressing a point 


Combat by Jesh will present the highly-anticipated ‘Fight Night V powered by Fitness First LK’ on July 27 at the Royal MAS Arena in Colombo, starting at 1.00 p.m. 

This event promises a spectacular showcase of boxing, MMA and kick-boxing talent under Coach Jeshan Nethiyanandan’s expert guidance.

Originated as a small-scale initiative, ‘Fight Night’ has grown into Sri Lanka’s premier combat sports event, consecutively held at the Royal MAS Arena for the past four years. 

This year, Fight Night V promises an inclusive platform where fighters of all backgrounds and skill levels compete on equal footing, a vision passionately championed by Coach Jesh.

Coach Jesh, with 25 years of professional fighting and 52 international placements, is a testament to Sri Lanka’s martial arts excellence, achieving the highest international honours and becoming the first and only Sri Lankan martial artist to have won across all six states of Australia. 

He emphasized that “Fight Night V revolutionises matchups by pairing fighters not only by weight but also by experience level, ensuring every participant faces a well-matched opponent.”

This year’s event introduces a ‘Touch Boxing’ segment for age four to eight, promoting early engagement in combat sports in a safe environment. 

An exhibition bout featuring a special needs child underscores the event’s commitment to inclusivity and community unity.

Highlighting diversity and empowerment, Fight Night debuts the Women’s ‘Pink Belt’ championship, co-sponsored by BeWAXed and Swastha, providing a platform for female fighters to showcase their skills in a traditionally male-dominated sport.

International participants include a veteran Russian boxer, the current USA Under-13 boxing champion and a UK MMA fighter, highlighting Fight Night V’s global appeal.

With 16 clubs and three independent fighters, most of them highly decorated in different categories, Fight Night V powered by Fitness First LK, promises intense competition across various weight classes.

The goal of Fight Night is to promote Boxing and MMA as inclusive sports for all ages, cultivating a diverse audience while providing vital support to clubs and fighters —whether newcomers or veterans—helping them gain the confidence to pursue professional careers. 

All Boxing events will adhere strictly to IBA rules, ensuring fair and regulated competition.

Tickets for ‘Fight Night V powered by Fitness First LK’ are available through Fitness First LK. For tickets, contact Fitness First LK at 0703276950 or 0773104181.