The Boxing and Kickboxing Championship concluded on Friday at the Oman Convention and Exhibition Center. This was part of the sports programmes included by 'Sports Spark', which aims to promote martial arts and boxing as prominent sports in Oman.
The championship witnessed strong competition between a group of local and international athletes. More than 10 countries and local clubs participated, competing for multiple titles in different weight categories amidst a large audience of more than 800 fans of different ages and nationalities.
The championship concluded with several champions winning in their different categories, as Mustafa Behlim won the title of the children's category at 35 kg, Hussam al Hinai won in the 52 kg weight category, while Amer Orabi achieved victory in the 68 kg weight category.
In the 60 kg weight category, Mohammed al Ghassani won the title, and the 54 kg weight title went to Rabin D Rabe Jr Sheikh Samer Al Ashqar also won in the 70 kg weight category, while Ibrahim Al Hooti won in the 57 kg weight category, Jawad Jihad in the 77 kg weight category, Muneer Al Mashaykhi in the 75 kg weight category, and Ziaullah Amin in the 70 kg weight category.
Waddah Al Harthy, the tournament official, confirmed that the event comes within the framework of supporting boxing and martial arts, noting that the tournament attracted distinguished Omani athletes who participated in regional and international tournaments, in addition to the presence of international referees and a specialised medical team to ensure that the fights proceed safely and professionally.
Ali Kerdi, owner of the 'Fit Box' club and coach of players Ahmed Al Ghailani and Ziaullah, expressed his pride in the performance of his players in the boxing and kickboxing tournament held as part of the 'Sports Spark' events.
Kerdi confirmed that Al Ghailani and Ziouallah gave an exceptional performance, which attracted the attention of many international entities, especially from the World Boxing Championship (WBC), as they received invitations to participate in upcoming international tournaments. He stated that this distinguished level came as a result of intensive preparations and high-level training.
Kerdi added that it was an extraordinary event in the history of martial arts, especially boxing in Oman, as the championship received direct support from the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth.
He pointed to the professional organisation witnessed by the championship, stressing that the safety of the players was a top priority, as all global measures were taken in such competitions to ensure that they were not exposed to any risks.
Kerdi added that boxing and martial arts are witnessing a remarkable development in Oman, thanks to the continuous efforts of sports bodies and local clubs to spread this sport and attract new talents.
Kerdi explained that boxing has begun to gain increasing popularity among young people and the Omani public, which was clearly reflected in the large attendance at the last championship, which witnessed enthusiastic encouragement from the public.
Kerdi spoke about the challenges facing this sport, explaining that it is not a wrestling sport as some promote it on social media, but rather a boxing art recognized internationally by the Olympics.
He expressed his great hope that the Sultanate of Oman will be able to participate in the Olympics, stressing that the expected support from the Ministry of Sports and Youth after this tournament contribute to qualifying Omani youth to participate in local and international tournaments, leading to competing in the Olympics. He added that the youth, after receiving the necessary support, will be able to raise Oman's flag on the international stage.
Regarding the controversy that arose regarding the women's fight that was cancelled, Kerdi explained that some social media outlets misrepresented the idea to the public, as some thought that the tournament was an all-female tournament. He stressed that the tournament included only one fight between two girls who would adhere to modest dress, wearing the hijab and headgear, and not as incorrectly circulated.
Finally, Kerdi stressed the importance of promoting the sport and supporting it as a professional sport known as the art of boxing, pointing out that practitioners of this sport are among the most disciplined and prepared people, as participating in the fight requires high physical and health readiness.
Oman Observer is now on the WhatsApp channel. Click here
