Boxing federations get K200,000 boosting

 By JACK AMI

THE Sports and Pacific Games Ministry through PNG Sports Foundation’s Sports Enhancement Programme allocated K200,000 to PNG Professional Boxing Federation yesterday.

Minister responsible Justin Tkatchenko presented the cheque to Manus Open member Ronnie Knight who represented the PNGBF.

This is so far the biggest support professional boxing has received from the government with the National Gaming Control Board (NGCB) previously giving K100,000 last year.

The funding will enable PNGPBF to bring Filipino boxer Dado Cabintoy and his trainer including other boxers to PNG for the World Professional Boxing Federation-sanctioned bouts tentatively scheduled for July 12 at the Sir John Guise Indoor Complex.

The first fight between Cabintoy and local fighter Jason Hayeu last November ended in a stoppage win to the Filipino in the 9th round at the Sports Inn, Port Moresby.

He said PNG boxing would benefit with title fights in the country.

Tkatchenko said the Sports Enhancement Programme is for all sports to benefit from but their administration and house should be in order.

Manus MP and pro boxing advocate Knight said the funding would ensure that Cabintoy is available for rematch in Port Moresby.

Knight said this event was scheduled for next month but due to funding constraints it was deferred to July 12.

The Manus MP, who has mentored 24-year-old Hayeu from an early age, is proud that the young Manusian fought his heart out against the experienced Filipino before the stoppage.

“Jason is looking forward to the rematch and has been training well and should give another strong performance in front of a home crowd.”