Renowned Tanzanian Francis Cheka, who is largely known for his media antics and conflicts with his opponents, suggested that India will be ashamed on Saturday when he defeats Indian pro-boxer and Olympic bronze medalist, Vijender Singh.
A pre-faceoff press conference involving both the competitors answering questions also included the two pro-boxers taking a number of jabs at one another, an aspect Cheka seemed to be more devoted toward.
If Cheka replicates his performance in the boxing ring with the zest he had in the press conference, Vijender Singh will be in for a stern test.
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“Vijender’s Olympic medal is nothing. I am a World Champion and inter-continental champion. On December 17, Vijender will know why I am a world champion. I feel sorry India has picked Vijender to fight me. He looks scared already. India will be ashamed on Saturday,” Cheka said through his interpreter as Vijender Singh grinned beside him.
Despite a poor record in his bouts away from home, the Tanzanian was confident with his claims that he will make Vijender Singh look second best on Saturday.
Unlike his opponent, the Indian looked extremely composed when reacting to Cheka’s claims.
“December 17 night will decide the kind of training that I and Lee Baird (trainer) had put in. I don’t care who my opponent is. I am 110 percent ready. I will show him who is the best,” said Vijender.
“Singh is King, come and cheer and see how I take Cheka down,” he added with a certain optimism.
Also read: Will never indulge in trash talk, my boxing will always do the talking: Vijender Singh
The man from Haryana looked to be pretty self-controlled even when he was shoved by Cheka in a “Face-off” photo-op, making it clear that none of Cheka’s claims or actions will affect his mindset going in to the bout.
When asked about his training in Manchester, Vijender complimented his coach, Lee Baird, crediting him for a successful stint in England. “I have really worked hard. Long swimming sessions, track rounds, 12 to 13 rounds bout sessions and long swimming sessions were the part of my training module in Manchester. I just can’t wait to get into the ring now,” the Indian boxing star said.
When the spotlight turned to the fight’s promoter, IOS’s Neerav Tomar, he calmly explained the situation in India with regards to sponsorship deals after the effect of demonetization.
“We have around 8-10 sponsors and we are talking to a few more. Despite the crisis there has been very good response,” Tomar said.
To which Vijender Singh added with a thumbs up, “Everybody should appreciate the move by PM Narendra Modi. I would term it a knock-out punch on corruption. There would be long-term benefits for sure.”
Eventually, Tomar also spoke about a potential opening of a Pro-boxing academy where ones with dedication and passion for the sport will be nurtured from a young age to follow the steps of Vijender. He added that they had already bought in 30-odd boxers to kickstart proceedings.
