Since turning professional two weeks back, boxer Vijender Singh has been busy fending off questions and controversies from all quarters. On Tuesday, however, he decided to answer all his critics and defend his decision even as he accepted that the transition would not be an easy one.
“A lot of good and bad things have been said since I announced my decision. Let me make it clear: I have always followed due process in my career. For my training in the UK, I had taken leave from SAI and also informed [C] Kuttappa sir, who is my coach, when I decided to turn pro. I have also applied for permission to my department (Haryana Police) and met and explained everything to both the Haryana CM and the Union Sports Minister,” Vijender said.
At the same time, he is aware of the huge task ahead. “It is not easy. Everything is new — training structure, surroundings, sparring partners. It will be a lot of hard work. But I am a very positive person and believe in giving my 100 per cent to whatever I do,” Vijender said. “People in India know about Olympics and amateur boxing but not professional. I believe Indians are the best in everything and I want to prove it to the world. Professional boxing takes a toll on you physically but Indians can give as well as take anything that anyone throws at us,” he added.
This confidence is what, Francis Warren of Queensberry Promotions said, made Vijender winning material. “There is some serious talent out there. But he has the winning mentality, the confidence of being able to do it and the arrogance of being the best. Plus, he is technically gifted. The combination is a sure recipe for success provided Vijender keeps working on his strength,” Warren said.
Vijender would start training in Manchester from July 27, pending approval from his employers, under Lee Beard and make his pro debut in late September. The 29-year-old will be fighting six bouts in the first season, till July 2016, and Warren said he was looking at Vijender’s seventh fight to be held in India.
