The Royal MAS Arena buzzed with excitement on Saturday night as Combat by Jesh, powered by FitnessFirst.lk, hosted the spectacular Fight Night V. A capacity crowd of 1,000 showed their support for the fighters. The atmosphere was electric, resonating with cheers and applause throughout the night.
The event featured five thrilling women’s bouts. For the first time in Sri Lanka, the event also introduced touch boxing for kids aged 3-9, adding a unique and inclusive dimension to the sport. A special inclusive fight highlighted that boxing is for everyone, further broadening the sport’s appeal and inclusivity.
The Boxing Association of Sri Lanka (BASL) played a pivotal role, providing referees and judges, ensuring the event’s smooth operation and adding credibility to the matches. Their support was instrumental in making Fight Night V a night to remember.
The championship belts were won by Kaumini Hashini (Ladies Pink), Malshan Jayasekara (Ultimate Boxer), Abdul Rahuman (Teens), Aazil Murajudeen (Schools), Husni Ahamed (Kickboxing) and Nick Carpenter (MMA). Jayasekera outpointed a top schoolboy pugilist from St Sylvester’s College Muditha Paris in the Light Middle weight under 71kg weight class. Two Zahira College, Maradana were outstanding. Abdul Rahman overwhelmed a Golden Glove winner from the USA 13-year-old Devin Woodey while Murajudeen avenged his loss to Sylvestrian JMT Deshan at a selection meet with an accomplished performance in the Light weight Under 60kg weight class.
Another highlight of the evening was Chathu Siriwardena of Hemamali BC, a Youth boxing champion winning the Purple Queen title with a dominant performance over rising star Kalani Herath in the Fly weight under 51kg weight class.
Another top schoolboy pugilist Sylvestrian SPP Angelo knocked out Dananjaya Wijebandara in the Feather weight under 57kg weight class. The six belt winners were awarded gifts worth Rs. 100,000 each. Every match winner received a gold medal, and all participants, along with their coaches, were given certificates as a testament to their efforts and contributions.
Fight Night V brought together 25 clubs and 72 fighters from all around Sri Lanka, showcasing the nation’s best talents. Additionally, the event featured three top international fighters from the USA, UK, and Russia, elevating the competition’s standard.
Russian Oleg scored a technical knockout win over Sanka Manampery of West Coast Boxing Club in the Super Heavy 92+kg weight category. The success of Fight Night V has set the stage for even bigger events in the future. The organisers announced that the next event, Fight Night VI, will be held on January 18, 2025.
“We are committed to nurturing young talent and creating future champions. This event is a testament to the passion and dedication of everyone involved, from the fighters to the fans,” said Coach Jesh, an MMA fighter. “This night has proven that boxing in Sri Lanka is on par with international standards, and that many organisations are willing to invest and sponsor combat sports. We are excited to see what the future holds for our young talents,” said Eksith of Fitness First.
“Our aim is to elevate combat sports in Sri Lanka and provide a platform for our athletes to shine. With events like these, we are paving the way for a brighter future for boxing / MMA / K-1 in our country. We believe an Olympic gold is not far out of reach,” said Akila Alles, Director of Fight Night.
Allaam Ousman