COLOMBO, Sri Lanka, Mar 26 (ePRESS) – The Ceylon Boxing Federation (CBF) staged a landmark felicitation ceremony in Colombo last Saturday, where Cuban Ambassador Patricia Lázara Pego Guerra pledged support for the future development of boxing in Sri Lanka, marking a historic moment for the sport.
The high-profile event brought together many of the country’s veteran boxing greats in a rare and emotional gathering, honouring their outstanding contributions to Sri Lankan boxing over several decades.
Chief Guest Ambassador Patricia Lázara Pego Guerra commended the Federation for recognising its boxing heroes and stressed that such initiatives are vital to preserve the legacy of the sport. She paid special tribute to Sumith Liyanage, acknowledging his dedication and service to the sport.
Importantly, the Ambassador assured her willingness to support the future growth of boxing in Sri Lanka and encouraged the Federation to formally engage with her office through diplomatic and sporting channels.
The ceremony also gained international significance with Indian professional boxer Vinod Kalarickal Sukumaran attending as Guest of Honour. He praised the initiative as a fitting tribute to the country’s boxing legends and expressed readiness to assist underprivileged Sri Lankan boxers, highlighting the need for stronger regional cooperation.
At the ceremony, legendary boxer L.V. Douglas and legendary boxer T.J.I. Ismail were honoured, while the late Allaam Ousman was recognised posthumously for his contribution to the sport.
The Ceylon Boxing Federation also conferred honorary membership on DIG (Retd) Sumith Liyanage, the oldest living Olympian in Sri Lanka, Indian WBC Champion Vinod Kalarickal Sukumaran, and legendary boxer L.V. Douglas.
In his presidential address, Dushantha Kiriella, President of the Ceylon Boxing Federation, requested Ambassador Patricia Lázara Pego Guerra to extend support for the development of boxing in Sri Lanka. He also appealed to Vinod Kalarickal Sukumaran to assist underprivileged school boxers across the country.
Both requests were warmly received and endorsed by the Ambassador and the Indian WBC Champion, underlining strong international backing for the growth of Sri Lankan boxing.
The ceremony not only honoured past champions but also sent a powerful message about the future, strengthening unity within the boxing community while laying a solid foundation for the continued progress of the sport in Sri Lanka.
