Vijender injured in training, US pro debut delayed
NEW DELHI: Indian boxing star Vijender Singh’s much-awaited professional debut in the USA, scheduled for April 12, was Sunday postponed after he injured himself during a sparring session in Los Angeles.
The 33-year-old, India’s first Olympic and world championships medallist in men’s boxing, was to make his US debut at the Staples Center on the Vasiliy Lomachenko-Anthony Crolla undercard. It was to be an eightround contest and his opponent was yet to be decided.
“I got hurt during a sparring session on Friday. My left eye has received two kinds of stitches and doctors have told me they would remove just the external stitches on coming Friday,” Vijender told PTI from his training base.
Vijender is so far unbeaten in his 10-bout pro career and claimed the WBO Asia Pacific super welterweight title during his stint in England. The celebrated Indian turned professional in 2015.
“I can’t recall the name of the guy I was sparring with but I got hit by his elbow. It is disappointing to be held back by something like this,” he added.
Asked if the new schedule for his debut US fight has been decided, the Haryana pugilist said, “It will only be known once my injury heals. It is going to take some time. My trainer (Freddie Roach) was furious with the boy who accidentally hit me. But it’s all part of life and I am never the one to sulk.
“Because apart from this, I am really enjoying training here. I am really looking forward to make a name for myself here.”