Vijender launches into title belt diplomacy after win

Amidst border tensions between India and China, in an act of diplomacy, Vijender offered the WBO Oriental title belt to Zulpikar, in response to a traditional cap presented by the latter.

Published : Aug 06, 2017 00:25 IST , MUMBAI

“I won but don’t mind handing over my title belts. The message to them (China) is not to intrude into our territory,” said Vijender, referring to border tension between both nations.
“I won but don’t mind handing over my title belts. The message to them (China) is not to intrude into our territory,” said Vijender, referring to border tension between both nations.
lightbox-info

“I won but don’t mind handing over my title belts. The message to them (China) is not to intrude into our territory,” said Vijender, referring to border tension between both nations.

Vijender Singh, talking from a position of strength following an unanimous points victory over Zulpikar Maimaitiali in their WBO super middleweight fight at the NSCI indoor stadium on Saturday night, indulged in a moment of diplomacy after the verdict.

He offered the WBO Oriental title belt to the Chinese, in response to a traditional cap presented by the latter.

The Indian explained: “He offered me the cap. I offered him back his title belt which was my property after the win. Zulpikar did not understand due to language problem. I am ready to hand over the two belts won (Vijender retained his own WBO Asia Pacific title belt and won the WBO Oriental champion belt) for the sake of peace between our two countries.”
 

Vijender added: “I won but don’t mind handing over my title belts. The message to them (China) is not to intrude into our territory.”

The Indian super middleweight, undefeated over nine pro title bouts, was referring to border tension between both nations.

Zulpikar got two warnings for unfair play from the match official. “His tactics were frustrating, no doubt. It  affected my fight plan,” said the Indian.

The Chinese viewpoint will remain a mystery, with the southpaw and entourage leaving the NSCI after the bout.

 

Sign in to unlock all user benefits
  • Get notified on top games and events
  • Save stories to read later
  • Access to comment on every story
  • Sign up / manage to our newsletters with a single click
  • Get notified by email for early bird access to discounts & offers to our products
Sign in

Comments

Comments have to be in English, and in full sentences. They cannot be abusive or personal. Please abide to our community guidelines for posting your comment