Fuad hoping to avoid strong boxers as he eyes q-final slot
PETALING JAYA: National boxer Muhamad Fuad Redzuan is hoping for the luck of the draw at the Asian Games in Indonesia from Aug 18-Sept 2.
Fuad is back in training after missing the Gold Coast Commonwealth Games in April following a six-week lay-off due to a broken cheek bone.
He said avoiding strong boxers from Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, China, the Philippines and Thailand in the early stages will help him meet his quarter-final target.
“I reached the quarter-finals of the Asian Games in Incheon 2014 and Guangzhou 2010. I aim to either equal the record in Indonesia or go a step further to reach the semi-finals,” said the 27-year-old Fuad.
“The lack of fights is an issue for me because I didn’t have matches when I was injured. I focused on technique when I was recovering ... I think my technique is at its best now.”
“I need more sparring matches to be sharper. Unfortunately, strong sparring partners are hard to find in Malaysia so I plan to train overseas before the Asian Games.”
Fuad, who won the light flyweight (49kg) gold medal in the Kuala Lumpur SEA Games last year, may train in Indonesia or Thailand for two weeks.
Fuad added that his performance at the Kapolri Cup in Manado, Indonesia, from July 2-10, was an indicator of his form.
“I reached the quarter-finals in the Kapolri Cup although it was my first tournament after six weeks. I’m happy that my standard did not drop too far,” said the Navy junior seaman.
“I’ve to be independent as I’m the only Malaysian boxer competing in the Asian Games.
“I’m glad my coach will be there with me in Indonesia.”