Tantalizing cash prizes but no Pinoy boxers in AIBA World Championships

CEBU, Philippines —  For the first time in its 75-year history, the International Boxing Federation (AIBA) will be giving away cash prizes to the medal winners in this year’s AIBA Men’s World Boxing Championships slated on October 26 to November 6 at the Stark Arena in Belgrade, Serbia.

“It is the first time AIBA will reward medalists of the World Championships financially, and this is how it should be. This money is well-deserved taking into account the years of preparations required to earn a place at AIBA’s top tournament and the efforts made. We know this development will be a major benefit for our boxers. Not only should they be successful in the ring, but also self-sufficient and prosperous,” AIBA President Umar Kremlev said.

For his part, AIBA Secretary-General Istvan Kovacs emphasized that this initiative is very significant for boxers who are working hard.

“AIBA provides its athletes a fair chance to earn a living as well as to have extra motivation. I know how much these possibilities mean for boxers. I am happy for those who are having this chance now, and to be leading the way AIBA is making these opportunities happen for today’s athletes. It’s a big step toward our big goal to build a sustainable boxing pathway,” Kovacs shared.

From the $2.6 million prize fund, a whopping $100,000 (P5 million) will be rewarded to each gold medalist. The silver is worth $50,000 (P2.5 million) while the bronze medalists will receive $25,000 (P1.25 million).

Unfortunately, the Association of Boxing Alliances in the Philippines (ABAP) won’t be sending any representatives to the week-long tournament where the Filipino fighters have great potential to excel.

The reason? Lack of preparation, according to ABAP secretary-general Ed Picson.

“None,” replied Picson when asked if ABAP would be fielding in bets to the upcoming AIBA tilt.

“Most of our elite boxers only went back to training less than two weeks ago. Not enough time to prepare,” Piscon explained further. “I know about the huge cash prizes but we’d rather not send any boxers than put us to shame.” — EBV