Asian Boxing Championship Shifted To Dubai, Postponed Due To COVID Situation In India

Asian Boxing Championship moved from Delhi to Dubai: In light of the recent surge in the number of COVID cases in India, the championship stands shifted from the capital of the country to Dubai, on April 28. However, the national organisation will remain a co-host along with the UAE.

Previously, the championship was scheduled from May 21 to 31 at the Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium in the state of Delhi which is recording over 20,000 cases daily.

The Boxing Federation of India said, "In the wake of international travel restrictions to India, the BFI, in consultation with Asian Boxing Confederation (ASBC), has decided to conduct the upcoming 2021 edition of the ASBC Asian Elite Men and Women Boxing Championships in Dubai".

The BFI further mentioned that with the newly-imposed international travel restrictions from many countries due to the prevailing pandemic situation, they have jointly taken a decision to relocate the tournament along with ASBC.

National body President Ajay Singh said that although it was a difficult decision for them, it had to be taken, considering the current situation of the country. He claimed the shift of the venue out of India to be fortunate. Although they were keen to host the championships in Delhi," they are left with no options".

"Boxers' safety is the most important concern for us and hence we had to take this decision." He added that after closely monitoring the situation and after deliberation with ASBC as well as the Government of India, they have decided to conduct the tournament in Dubai.

The ASBC, in a communication to all the member national federations, informed about the updated date of the championship. It will now take place between May 21 to June 1.

The women's championship team will be spearheaded by M.C. Mary Kom (51 kg). Nonetheless, the Indian men's team for the same event is yet to be announced.