KUCHING: Sarawak’s up-and-coming boxing prospect, Gideon Riquelme Jonathan, 22, has the chops to represent Malaysia at the 2027 SEA Games.
President of Sarawak Amateur Boxing Association (SABA), Datuk Rahman Lariwoo, expressed confidence in Gideon’s talents following his impressive pro debut knockout victory against Lucas John Holmes in theWorld Boxing Council (WBC) Championship at World Siam Stadium, Bangkok, on March 29.
He disclosed that the 22-year old had previously been offered a place on the national team after his success at SUKMA last year. However, he opted to pursue a professional career instead.
“I will try to persuade him again to represent Malaysia. He holds great potential to go far.
“I do hope the national boxing camp will accommodate Gideon’s request to train with his own coach should he agree to join the national team,” Rahman told reporters during a Hari Aidilfitri open house event at his residence on Tuesday (April 1).
The newly-minted pro boxer currently trains under coach Stephen Onn Jenggieng in Kuching.
Meanwhile, the SABA president had also reiterated his aspirations for Kuching to be designated as the official venue for boxing events at the 2027 SEA Games.
He revealed his intent to discuss this proposal with the soon-to-be-appointed director-general of the National Sports Council (MSN), Jefri Ngadirin.
With the emergence of Gideon and fellow Sarawakian boxer Daeloniel McDelon Bong, also known as ‘Kilat Boy,’ the state now boasts two formidable professional fighters capable of elevating Malaysia’s boxing profile on the regional stage.
It is exciting days for Sarawak’s boxing scene, and it will only get better.
