ISLAMABAD (S Awan) Pakistan Professional Boxing Board has been announced to promote professional boxing in Pakistan and to introduce Pakistani boxers to the world level. Famous Pakistani boxer Aamir Khan while announcing the formation of the new board said that the first show of professional boxing in Pakistan is expected to be held on February 10.

According to Amir Khan, registration and licensing of boxers, referees and judges will be done under the new board, while links will be established with international boxing organizations to introduce Pakistani boxers to international competitions. In this regard, efforts will also be made to join WBC, WBA, IBF and WBO.

Aamir Khan said that there is a severe lack of boxing academies and modern gymnasiums in Pakistan, however, there is immense boxing talent in different areas of the country including Lyari. The government should support the establishment of boxing academies on vacant sports complexes and government land to provide opportunities for young athletes to progress.

He said that due to financial difficulties, Pakistani boxers are forced to represent other countries. Under the new board, boxers will be provided opportunities for overseas competitions, training and sponsorship. According to board officials, the boxers will be compensated whether they win or lose the bout.

Under the new system, medical examinations and fitness tests will be mandatory before boxing matches, while boxers with differences in experience and records will be protected from unfair competition. Training courses of national and international standards for referees and judges will also be conducted to enable Pakistani officials to take on responsibilities in Asian and international competitions.

According to Amir Khan, the Pakistan Professional Boxing Board is a private sector effort and will not depend on government funding. Website Showboxing.com has been activated for online registration of boxers, referees and judges. After registration, candidates will undergo medical tests, examinations and interviews.

Under the board, records of Pakistani boxers' competitions will be stored on authentic international platforms. The aim of the board is to introduce a transparent, safe and world-class system for professional boxing in Pakistan