Boxing Lands a Spot in the 2025 Asian Youth Games

TDT | Manama
Email : editor@newsofbahrain.com

A Big Win for Young Fighters in Bahrain

The Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) has confirmed that boxing will join the lineup for the 3rd Asian Youth Games, set to take place in Bahrain from October 22-31. This addition is a big step forward for the sport, offering young athletes across Asia a chance to compete on a major regional stage.

Asian Boxing Steps Up

Asian Boxing, the sport’s newly formed confederation, will oversee the event, working closely with the OCA to ensure smooth operations, fair officiating, and a focus on athlete growth. Speaking exclusively to TDT, Olympic boxing coach for Bahrain, Tony Davis, reflected on the country’s rapid rise: “Back in 2019, we were just starting off—making our debut in the Asian Elite Championships to raise the flag of Bahrain. Then we did the unthinkable and qualified for the Tokyo Olympic Games. After that, we finished top of the World Combat Games in the Gulf.” He sees the 2025 Games as a pivotal moment, adding, “It’s exciting to see Bahrain stepping up as host. The inclusion of boxing is a significant achievement, and it’s great that the hard work to make this happen has paid off. This event will provide a platform to present local talent and serve as an important qualifier for the Youth Olympics in Dakar 2026.”

Davis also highlighted the broader impact: “I’m hoping what we do at the grassroots level will inspire the next generation of coaches, boxers, and officials alike, but it’s the intrinsic motivation that makes the difference.” On the challenges ahead, he noted, “The work has already begun to ensure we have good representation at the Games. Our young fighters will face Asia’s best, and we’re preparing them to build a foundation for the Los Angeles Olympics.” This collaboration reflects a broader shift, with the International Olympic Committee (IOC) now backing World Boxing as the global federation and Asian Boxing as its regional arm—a straightforward setup aimed at keeping the sport on track.

Pichai Chunhavajira, President of Asian Boxing, called it “an exciting moment for boxing in Asia.” He views the 2025 Games as a key opportunity for young fighters to gain experience and build toward bigger goals, with an event designed to deliver solid competition while honoring the sport’s traditions.

A Platform for Rising Talent

With boxing now part of the Asian Youth Games, the event will give Asia’s top young athletes a chance to test their skills at a high level. It’s a practical stage for those hoping to one day compete on the world scene, while also boosting the sport’s visibility across the region. The focus is clear: provide a competitive environment that helps the next generation grow.

Steady Progress for Boxing

The inclusion of boxing in the 2025 Asian Youth Games is a sensible move that builds on the sport’s momentum in Asia. Bahrain will host a competition that’s less about flash and more about substance—giving young fighters a chance to shine and showing what boxing brings to the table. It’s a straightforward step forward, and one worth watching.