DOHA, 10 OCTOBER 2015: Boxing fans flocked to the Ali Bin Hamad Al Attiyah Arena in Doha today to witness the excitement on show as world boxing’s signature event edges closer to its climax. With an array of colorful flags in the stands ranging from Mongolia in the far east to Cuba in the far west, the atmosphere was incredible as the first few elite boxers walked out in front the watchful eye of boxing superstar Amir Kahn.
For Yousuf Ali Al Kazim, President of the Qatar Boxing Federation and Executive Director of the LOC in association with Qatar Olympic Committee, it was a proud moment:
“This was our vision when bidding to host these historic World Championships. We wanted Doha 2015 to be a celebration of the boxing sport, and gather local communities to support their heroes. I think we have succeeded, and that Qatar has made boxing come alive across the region. With Amir Kahn’s visit we have also inspired athletes and fans alike, and we can’t wait for the continuation of the finals stage in the coming days.”
Rogen Ladon of the Philippines was the first pugilist to enter the ring, where he faced the Polish light flyweight champion Dawid Jagodzinski. After three intense rounds, the Filipino favorite was able to secure his place in the semi-finals by winning on unanimous decision – a new personal best for the 21-year-old who is competing in the World Championships for the first time.
“I am extremely happy to be through. I may be young, but in my country this doesn’t matter at all. It’s all about how strong you are in the ring. The next match will be a lot tougher, so I’ll go and work with my coach on my weaknesses. My dream is to compete in the Olympics [Rio 2016], and by working hard I’m sure I can get there,” Ladon said.
For Team Qatar the competition is now over, in what has been a fairytale adventure for coach Juan Carlos Gonzalez’ troops. Hakan Ersaker was the last remaining boxer in the competition, a historic feat in its own right, but was unable to overcome India’s aggressive Shiva Tapa in the bantam category.
The other Indian boxer battling to advance in the competition today was the middle weight boxer Krishan Vikas, who met Egypt’s champion Hosam Abdin. From the start it was clear that it could go only way, with the reigning African champion dominating throughout. In the last round Abdin was dancing in circles against his tiring opponent, and found himself in tears of joy as the unanimous win was announced on the loudspeakers.
“Thank you to everyone for supporting me, thank you to all the Egyptians living in Qatar for being here today, and thank you Allah for helping to win against a very strong opponent. My dream is to make my people happy by winning the world title, and it feels amazing to be one step closer to making that dream come true,” Abdin said.
