CHENNAI: Boxing ace Akhil Kumar has seen it all. In a decorated career, he has battled numerous champions and delighted his fans. But August 5, 2017 was a significant day for him. He was making his debut in the professional arena. Prior to that, he had been away from the competitive circuit for over three years, the 2014 Commonwealth Games being his last event. Injuries had taken a toll. He was constantly looking to remain in shape and be battleready. It was a long sabbatical and not many expected to see him in the ring at 36. Having waited for long, after having signed a contract with IOS Boxing Promotions last year, the time had finally arrived. And if not emphatic, it was a solid debut for the ageless professional. “I had promised that I would not disappoint.
And I feel I have managed to achieve that,” Akhil told Express from Chandigarh. “It was a thrilling experience. Everyone could see that a lot of eager fans had come to witness the bouts. I’m sure everyone had a great time,” he added. On paper, the result suggests an easy win — technical knockout (TKO) against Australia’s Ty Gilchrist. But the Haryana ace had to endure a nasty cut near his left eye. Despite blood dripping into his eyes, he pushed hard with pinpoint punches before his rival threw in the towel. Love for the sport has kept Akhil fighting.
“I have gone past the stage where winning and losing does not really matter much. I love the sport, I love to enter the ring,” the 2006 Commonwealth Games champion said. And he is also humbled by the love and support being showered upon him. “‘Akhil Kumar is alive’. I got many comments like that. I met a lot of folks — boxing enthusiasts, celebrities. It is good to get recognised for your effort.” Far from the din in Mumbai where the bout took place, Akhil also had a young fan following his bout closely.
He revealed that his six-year-old daughter Shambavi Mishra was watching his bout. “She was worried about me before the bout and called me on numerous occasions.” Jitender gears up for future Jitender Kumar also had a memorable debut and recorded a TKO against Thailand Thanet Likhitkamporn in the lightweight category. “I will start practicing from tomorrow (Tuesday). It was a comfortable fight but I know I can improve. I’ve started playing after a long break and getting into the ring is not easy,” he said. “I practice in Gurgaon. I have joined a gym and go to Akhil Kumar’s academy here. I spar with boxers who are the at the academy and it’s quite interesting.”
anmol@newindianexpress.com
