Gloves finals go global

FOR 86 years, the Daily News Golden Gloves has been a staple of New York sports and an example for boxing events around the world.

Boxing's largest and most celebrated amateur tournament will begin a new chapter in its illustrious history by opening its championship bouts Thursday night at Barclays Center. The global reach of the sweet science will be on full display when Brooklyn welcomes the Big Apple’s best.

The evening’s ninth bout will feature Misato Kamegawa (Atlas Cops N Kids), who is seeking her third consecutive title at 119 pounds in a four-round bout with Federica Bianco (Trinity BC). Kamegawa became the first Japanese-born boxer to win the Gloves in 2011.

“I want to prove I’m a real champion (and) three times is going to convince people,” said Kamegawa, who hails from Fukuoka. “I know the Barclays Center is a huge venue (and) that it’s historic that (the Gloves) are there for the first time. I’m so glad to be a part of it.”

Frenchman Julan Frederic will battle Mendez Boxing Club teammate Jesse Jezina in the 178-pound novice championship. Born and raised in Paris, Frederic left for a shot at boxing glory.

“New York is the best place ever to be a boxer,” Frederic said. “If you’re a boxer here, people know you and give you respect.”

Several other New York products will showcase their heritage. Nisa Rodriguez (Mendez BC) will try to make Puerto Rico proud when she duels Jennifer Ignotz (Unattached) for the 152-pound title. Khalid Twaiti (Gleason’s Gym) will finish the night in the 114-pound open final against Jordan Rodriguez (Ardon Sweet Science). Though Twaiti was born in Brooklyn, his extensive Yemeni family will be well-represented in the crowd. Tickets are still available for both nights of the Golden Gloves finals at Barclays Center on www.ticketmaster.com. First bout begins at 7 p.m. on Thursday and at 7:45 p.m. on Friday.