Indian boxing star Vijender Singh was crowned the WBO Asia-Pacific Super Middleweight champion yesterday after edging out Australia’s Kerry Hope by a unanimous decision in the country’s maiden professional fight in New Delhi.
Singh, who became the first Indian to win a boxing medal by taking home bronze from the 2008 Olympics, kept his undefeated record alive in his seventh bout since turning pro last year.
Hailing from the next-door state of Haryana, the 30-year-old did not disappoint in front of a packed house at Delhi’s Thyagaraj stadium which erupted with joy after the tenth and final round.
Singh, who had won all his previous fights via knockout or TKO, scored 98-92, 98-92, 100-90 to dismantle the former WBC European champion.
The 34-year-old Hope, who had a 23-7 record heading into the fight, relied on his 12 years of professional experience in the ring against the newcomer. But Singh appeared unstoppable.
Singh was looking to land a knockout punch from the opening bell but Hope’s aggressive approach kept his tactics in check.
Singh relied on right hooks, taking advantage of his six-foot frame and wider reach than his Welsh-born Australian opponent, who stood at 5 feet 10 inches.
“It’s not about myself, it’s about my nation, my country,” Singh said after being crowned winner.
The local hero had a host of top athletes, celebrities and politicos outside the ring to celebrate his maiden pro title.
Singh’s British trainer Lee Beard lifted the champion after the final bell to celebrate the victory even before the three judges delivered their final decision.
“This comes after a lot of hard work put in by me, my trainer, my team. I thank my coach, my promoter and my team who have done a fantastic job.
“I also thank all the fans, the celebrities and sportspersons who have come to watch my bout today. The countdown has just begun,” Singh said.