I have to win for future of pro boxing in India, says Vijender Singh on his maiden title bout

The Olympic bronze medallist, who turned pro last year, has been unbeaten in six bouts so far, winning all of them via knockouts. Hope though, has the experience of 30 bouts, out of which he has won 23, with two of them being knockouts. The Welsh-born Hope, who emigrated to Australia, was a WBC middleweight champion. He had moved a division to super middleweight to take on the Indian. The former European champion had said that he will defeat Vijender in front of his own fans, but Vijender Singh believes that there is no pressure on him to win the bout.

I think, there is no pressure (but) more responsibility because this fight will decide what is the future of pro boxing in India

“I think, there is no pressure (but) more responsibility because this fight will decide what is the future of pro boxing in India. People are excited and would be coming to see (the fight),” the 2008 Olympic Games bronze-medallist told reporters, reported PTI.

“Of course, I will have to give (my) 100 percent, I have to win the fight, that’s (an) important part, but there is no pressure, (only) responsibility is there, fulfil it and take the title,” said the 30-year-old.

Although Hope is an experienced boxer, having 30 out of his 23 bouts, Vijender seemed confident of his chances and said that the fight will not be difficult.

“He is a southpaw (left-hander) and I know him and he is a very experienced guy. I spoke to (my) coach. We will take him, it’s not that difficult, don’t worry.

“I don’t want to say anything before the fight, pass any comment or any bad thing about him, like I am going to destroy him,” said the Olympic bronze medal winner.

When asked about his thoughts on fighting for a title, Vijender said, “After this, I will come in the league, my ranking will be 15 in the world and then it’s going to be like going for the world title fight — slowly, maybe next year or after that.”

Vijender also confirmed that he will travel to Rio for the Olympics to support the Indian boxers.

“I will go to the Rio Olympics (to support other Indian boxers), after this fight. I will go and just watch the fight in Rio,” Vijender told PTI.

Also, read: Vijender Singh : My punches will reply to overconfident Kerry Hope