Goa’s professional boxing dream is alive and kicking thanks to Susegado Strike’s allround approach and determination of the state’s top two boxers- Pralhad Panda and Kailas Gauns, who are raring to go for two of the unprecedented three title bouts on the fight card at the Fight Night 4.0 at International Centre Goa, Dona Paula on Saturday evening.
IBC India West champion Prahlad Panda will take on Vinod Vanteddu in the Featherweight National Title bout; while Kailas Gauns will contest the Super Fly Men’s National Title against Vanlalenkawltira from Mizoram.
Pralhad’s eyes said it all at the faceoff as the 29-year-old boxer flashed his ruthless streak. “I work hard on finetuning my skillsets while the constant focus on stamina gives me the edge when it matters in the ring,” said Pralhad, who hopes he can inspire amateur boxers to make the professional switch.
Pralhad’s rival Vinod goes by the nickname Tyson, and means business. “I have been waiting for this bout since long and I am ready to rock it. Let’s show the fire,” reacted the boxer from Telangana.
Kailas expressed confidence as he believes in holistic preparation without bothering about the background check on his opponent. “I am fully prepared and ready!,” stated the 31-year-old pugilist, who trains under experienced SAG coach Praveen Shirodkar.
Raj Sahiba from Haryana, has found Goa to be her happy hunting ground and aims to repeat her victorious showing once again. She will be facing Gazal Maria Mathew in the Super Welter Women’s category (6 rounds).
“I love the atmosphere and the support that I get in Goa is special. I will be looking to win my third consecutive bout,” asserted Sahiba, who takes to the ring in probing manner and adapts her style combating the strategy of her opponent.
Indian Boxing Council COO Vivek Raja emphasised the significant progress achieved this year. “It’s a tremendous feat by the promoters Susegado Strike, the effort that Clyde, Prathamesh and Luigson have put in to pull this (4th fight night) off and get people to come in and watch the show,” he said.
FIGHT NIGHT 4.0: ORDER OF PLAY
Asad Asif Khan vs Ashish Kumar
Akansha Singh vs Lakshmi M Gireesh (Women)
Shijo Shaji vs Arshdeep Singh Batth
Raj Sahiba vs Gazal Maria Mathew (Women)
Kailas Gauns vs Vanlalenkawltira (Title Bout)
Midhun A vs Mohammed Dilshad (Title Bout)
Pralhad Panda vs Vinod Vanteddu (Title Bout)
