World Boxing Champs Underway in Doha

(ATR) Boxers are halfway through the preliminary rounds of the AIBA boxing world championships taking place in Doha, Qatar.

Some 243 boxers from 69 countries are competing in the 10-day event for a chance to earn a spot at the Rio 2016 Olympics next August. Only 23 boxers will qualify from the 10 different weight classes.

The competition began on Monday with the official weigh-in and tournament draw announcement from AIBA president C.K. Wu. Following the draw, athletes and spectators gathered at the Ali Bin Hamad Arena where athlete representatives from the 69 countries carried their flags around the two boxing rings during the opening ceremony.

Athletes also listened to a motivational video message from IOC president Thomas Bach. Bach reminded the athletes they were not only competing for the title of world champion but also for one of the coveted spots at Rio 2016.

"I encourage all of you to compete in the Olympic spirit; in the spirit of excellence, friendship and respect. To all of you athletes, organisers and fans, I wish you a great competition in Doha," Bach said.

In order to make it to Rio, athletes must first survive the first four days of preliminary matches. Preliminary matches began on Tuesday with 39 bouts yet only two knockouts, one coming at the hands of American Joshua Temple to end the first afternoon session.

"Qatar has been eagerly waiting for this day to arrive and today we’ve just had a small taste of what this prestigious championship will deliver. The venue is world-class, the talented boxers on display are truly world-class and the stage is set for the next nine days of breathtaking action in the ring," said Qatar Boxing Federation president Yousuf Ali Al Kazim following the first day of action.

The second day of competition is currently underway with a total of 44 bouts to be completed. Half of the fights have concluded resulting in two knockouts thus far.

Thursday’s matches will kick-off the round of 16 with winners from Thursday and Friday advancing to the quarterfinal round Saturday. The championships will also have one of the best modern boxers Manny Pacquiao flying in to watch the competition as a special guest on Thursday.

"This is the benchmark for future World Championships and I am pleased that Manny Pacquiao accepted my invitation to come and share his thoughts and ideas first hand," said Wu.

The AIBA boxing world championships will come to a close on October 15 with 23 boxers earning tickets to Rio.

Written by KevinNutley

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