COLOMBO, Apr 17 (ePRESS) – The Ceylon Boxing Federation (CBF) has emerged as the country’s only organised platform dedicated to the welfare of veteran boxers, providing long-overdue recognition and financial support under the leadership of its president Dushantha Kiriella.
Backed by Sri Lanka’s boxing icon Dian Gomes — a former president of the Boxing Association of Sri Lanka (BASL), and a current director of the International Boxing Association (IBA) and the Asian Boxing Confederation — the CBF is steadily gaining ground as a pioneering force in Sri Lanka’s sporting arena.
“This is a long overdue initiative. Our veteran boxers have given their best years to the sport, and it is our duty to look after them with dignity,” Gomes said, backing the federation’s welfare-driven approach.
Formed earlier this year, the CBF was launched with a clear vision: to protect and uplift former boxers who once served the sport but were often left without structured support after retirement. The federation has since filled a long-standing gap by focusing on the welfare and wellbeing of veteran athletes, a first-of-its-kind initiative in the country.
“Our vision is very clear — no boxer who served Sri Lanka should be forgotten,” Kiriella said. “We want to recognise them, support them in difficult times, and stand by them as one boxing family.”
Under Kiriella, a former Thurstan College boxing captain, the CBF has introduced several programmes aimed at recognising and assisting past boxers. One of its key initiatives includes grand felicitation ceremonies, where veteran fighters are honoured for their contributions to the sport. Cuban Ambassador, Her Excellency Mrs. Patricia Lázara Pego also attended the CBF Felicitation Ceremony
“We started by recognising our heroes. That respect is very important before anything else,” Kiriella added.
The federation has also extended direct financial assistance to former athletes in need, particularly in areas such as medical support. Among those who have benefited is former Royal College boxer and veteran journalist late Allam Ousman, highlighting the CBF’s commitment to standing by its own during times of hardship.
“We are not just an organisation, we are a support system. When a boxer is in need, we must act immediately,” Kiriella said.
In another significant move, the CBF has introduced a Death Donation Fund to provide financial relief to families of deceased boxers. The initiative was launched with the support of former Trinity College boxing captain Ikram Odayar, who contributed to establishing the fund, reinforcing a culture of solidarity within the boxing fraternity.
“This is about unity. The boxing community must take care of its own, especially in times of loss,” Gomes said.
With growing recognition and support from the local boxing community, the CBF is now looking to expand its reach through international backing. The federation hopes to collaborate with global bodies such as the IBA and the Asian Boxing Confederation for fundraising initiatives, while also inviting well-wishers to contribute towards its welfare fund.
“We welcome all well-wishers to join hands with us. This is a cause that goes beyond sport,” Kiriella said.
As Sri Lanka’s boxing scene continues to rebuild, the CBF stands out as a pioneer — placing humanity at the heart of sport and ensuring that those who once fought in the ring are not forgotten outside it.
