Akhil, Jitender go Vijender’s way, to turn professional
NEW DELHI: The gang of 2008 will be complete when Jitender Kumar and Akhil Kumar follow Vijender Singh in the ring as professional boxers. It was at the Beijing Olympics that Vijender became the face of Indian boxing with his bronze-medal finish. With an open stance, Akhil was a superstar after his demolition of the-then world champion Sergey Vodjopyanov. Jitender too had his share of the spotlight.
“The decision was always coming. When I tore my ACL last November, many people thought my career was over as it also ended my Olympic hopes. But Neerav Tomar (his promoter) kept encouraging me that I wasn’t finished. Everyone likes to hear good things about themselves, so in a way he is a big reason why I’m turning pro,” said Akhil.
But the bigger pull was AIBA’S (world boxing body) decision to allow pro boxers in the Olympics. “For someone like Jitender, who still has age on his side, the AIBA’S decision is a big encouragement.”
Jitender was roped in as well. “He had once said ‘I suffer if I don’t follow Akhil’s advice’. So I told him about this possibility and he agreed, luckily the agency was willing,” said Akhil.
Jitender agreed. “Of late, I have been more interested in policing. Akhil was after my life to turn pro. Once the right promoters came on board, I gave my consent,” he said.
Despite the announcement, duo is yet to sign an agreement with IOS Boxing Promotions, as a goahead is yet to be received from Haryana Police, their employers.
“We haven’t received permission from Haryana Police. Next week, we will meet our Director General of Police. I don’t see a problem. Vijender got the clearance, so will we,” said Akhil.