Vijender vows to set record straight

Olympic and world championship medallist boxer Vijender Singh announced that he would prepare in right earnest for the Asian Games in the limited time available and try to learn from the mistakes of the Commonwealth Games, at a launch function here on Friday.

“I have already made my entry in the training camp in Patiala a few days ago. After the Commonwealth Games, I had to go home also,” said Vijender, countering the query that he was not training.

The disappointment of losing a bout in which he had led 3-0 and his opponent had not registered a punch throughout, but won by virtue of penalty points, was very much evident as Vijender assured that he would set the record straight in the more competitive Asian Games. Host China and the likes of Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan hint tough fights in every bout at the event.

Gold and nothing less

Vijender who had bagged the bronze medal in the last Asian Games in Doha, said that he was always thinking of gold and nothing less.

Though he continues to be the No.1 in the world in the 75 kg category, Vijender said that he was not as worried about the ranking as much as he was about winning the medals.

For the second time in recent weeks Vijender was declared the loser, when his opponent had not landed a punch, as the Alfa Boxer Strolly launched by VIP, withstood a flurry of punches from the champion boxer. Vijender said that he was happy to be associated with the quality brand.

Asked about Delhi losing its franchise in the World Series of Boxing, Vijender said that he was upset and acknowledged that it was a blow for Indian boxing, especially to a lot of youngsters who could have capitalised on the exposure.

Declining to accept the argument that the Indian project had failed owing to his reluctance to be a part of it, Vijender said that it was impossible for him to fight either in the 73 kg or 85 kg sections offered to him.

“It was not only because of me. If it comes again, it will be good for Indian boxing,” said Vijender.

On a lighter note, Vijender said that he hoped for favourable referees during the Asian Games, though he was dependent on his strength and skill to win his bouts.