The Sierra Leone Boxing Association (SLBA) is gearing up for an exciting showdown as it announces the upcoming East vs West Boxing Championship, scheduled for October 26, 2024, in eastern Freetown.

This highly anticipated event will see British boxers Liam Smyth, known as “Ginge,” and Perry-Lee Atkinson from Birmingham square off against Sierra Leonean fighters Alusine Mansaray, affectionately called “Tommy Lee,” and Abu Bakar Katta, nicknamed “Target.”

During a recent meeting with the National Sports Authority (NSA), SLBA Secretary General Alhaji Komba expressed his enthusiasm for the championship, building on the momentum generated from the boxers’ previous encounter earlier this year, which captivated local audiences.

The SLBA aims to harness this excitement to foster a deeper appreciation for boxing in Sierra Leone while promoting grassroots development in the sport.

Related News

Komba also highlighted Sierra Leone’s commitment to international boxing, noting that both Mansaray and Katta are currently training in Kinshasa for the African Boxing Championship.

Additionally, three young Sierra Leonean boxers are set to compete at the World Youth Championship in Montenegro, showcasing the nation’s rising talent on the global stage.

The upcoming championship is not just a sporting event but a platform for strengthening ties between Sierra Leone and the UK, as emphasized by Smyth. He expressed gratitude to the SLBA for their hospitality, remarking that such collaborations are instrumental in attracting British citizens to visit Sierra Leone.

Smyth believes these partnerships foster sporting excellence and provide local youth with positive opportunities, steering them away from negative influences like crime.

Saffa Abdulai, Executive Director of the NSA, commended the SLBA for its dedication to enhancing Sierra Leone’s boxing profile internationally. He stressed the importance of ongoing partnerships between the UK and Sierra Leone in creating opportunities for athletes and sports administrators.

Abdulai also expressed excitement for the upcoming local and international competitions, underscoring their role in nurturing young talent and promoting a vibrant sporting culture in Sierra Leone.

As the East vs West Boxing Championship approaches, anticipation is building among fans and athletes alike, promising a thrilling showcase of boxing talent that will undoubtedly elevate the sport’s status in Sierra Leone.