Akhil, Jitender’s pro debut rivals announced

New Delhi, July 19 (IANS) Indian boxer Akhil Kumar will face Ty Gilchrist of Australia while Jitender Kumar will take on Thailands Thanet Likhitkamporn in their respective professional debuts.

The two Olympians will be part of the undercard bouts of star pugilist Vijender Singh's double title fight against WBO Oriental Super Middleweight Champion Zulpikar Maimaitali of China in Mumbai on August 5.

The 36-year-old Akhil will face the experienced Gilchrist in a four-round Junior Welterweight (63 kilograms) contest.

Gilchrist made his debut in 2010 and has played 13 bouts since then with a total of six wins, two of which came through knockouts.

"Yes, he is more experienced than me, but that does not make any difference to me. It's my debut and all I am concentrating on right now is training hard so that I put up a good show. For the last six months, I have been training very hard including working on my fitness and sharpening my skills.

"Also, I am working on improving my technique as per the requirements of professional boxing and remembering my favourite punches as well. It's great that he is experienced, people will enjoy our fight and I like challenges," Akhil said in a statement on Wednesday.

Thanet on the other hand, is comparatively new to the pro-boxing circuit having made his debut earlier this year. He has fought only one bout which did not result in his favour.

He will meet Jitender in a four-round Lightweight (61kg) contest.

"Debut in pro boxing will be a new beginning for me, I am working really hard to improve my technique and gain physical fitness," Jitender said.

"I am not scared of my opponent. I know I am training well, so I am confident of winning my debut fight."