Classic first-timer impressed with pomp, ceremony

Eric Basran’s introduction to the Ken Goff Memorial Boxing Classic has already been memorable.

The Canadian senior men’s 56-kilogram champion was impressed by the pomp and ceremony that took place during Thursday’s official weigh-ins at the Auto Gallery Subaru showroom. Weigh-ins were held in advance of Friday’s card at the Credit Union EventPlex, where Canada is to square off against Cuba.

“It’s crazy and I never expected to do this,” said Basran, a first-time member of the national senior men’s team. “Being here, I’m really grateful and I’m excited to see what happens.”

Basran, an 18-year-old native of Surrey, B.C., earned a national team berth by defeating Quebec’s Thomas Blumenfeld on April 28 at the Canadian senior championships. One benefit of being a Canadian champion is the opportunity to participate in the Classic.

“I had heard about the event, but I didn’t know too much about it,” Basran said. “As I was getting closer to it, everybody kept telling me how good it is and how many people come out to support it.”

The Classic’s prestige has been enhanced by Cuba’s participation. Cuba is Canada’s opponent for the first time in the Classic’s 24-year history. The international boxing powerhouse earned six medals in men’s boxing at the 2016 Summer Olympics.

“Because it’s the beginning of the Olympic cycle, it was important for us to have the best up here so our guys can start measuring themselves against what they will be up against,” said Pat Fiacco, one of the organizers of the Classic.

Seven fights are scheduled for Friday, including a 56-kg bout between Basran and Cuba’s Maikel Barro. Access Communications has a live telecast beginning at 8 p.m.

The national teams will meet again Sunday at 1 p.m. in the Brandt Cup at the Doubletree by Hilton.