KUCHING: Knox13 Boxing Club secretary, Azreen Octavious, has called on the wider Sarawak community, especially business owners and entrepreneurs, to step forward and support local fighters.
He pointed out that Sarawak possesses an abundance of untapped combat sports talent that deserves stronger backing and long-term investment.
He urged potential sponsors to consider establishing or investing in a Sarawak-based boxing promotion to create more opportunities for local fighters, noting that Sarawak should not wait for outside parties to develop the industry.
“Sarawak has talent – real talent. Our fighters train hard, compete with heart, and make the most of whatever they have.
“Such sponsorships would go towards supporting Sarawakian fighters, Sarawakian coaches, and Sarawakian club. If you’re a businessman or entrepreneur who loves combat sports, get involved by supporting a club or an athlete to strengthen the ecosystem,” he said.
Azreen said those who wished to make a long-term impact could consider building or backing a boxing promotion in Sarawak.
“Our state deserves its own platform, its own stage, and its own opportunities. We don’t have to wait for anyone else to build it for us,” he said.
Amid this call to action, Azreen recently clinched a unanimous decision victory at the Twins Championship 103, where he represented Knox13 Boxing Club.
The Managing Director of Arun Ami (S-MM2H) Sdn Bhd competed while simultaneously sponsoring Knox13 and Knight Performance Training Centre (PTC) through his company, enabling both teams to field amateur and professional fighters at the West Malaysian-run event.
Knox13 recorded an impressive performance by entering 16 amateur fighters who secured 10 gold medals and six silver medals, with Azreen himself among the gold medalists.
The club also featured a professional boxer, Aidith Aqida, who fought in a three-round bout.
Meanwhile, Knight PTC sent five amateur boxers and brought home two gold medals and three silver medals.
Their professional representative, Gideon ‘Borneo Brawler’ Riquelme, competed in a four-round professional contest.
Reflecting on the athletes’ achievements, Azreen said both teams trained with remarkable dedication, navigating injuries, setbacks and daily challenges that are rarely seen by the public.
“I am proud of Knox13, proud of Knight PTC, and proud of every fighter who stepped into the ring at the championship. Sarawak has the capability to build its own combat sports platform without relying on others.
“As such, with proper sponsorship and support, local fighters can go much further and bring greater recognition to the state,” he added.
