The Bocskai Memorial Tournament is opening today in Debrecen, which celebrates its 56th edition and presents more and higher profile applicants than ever before.Over 120 boxers from 22 countries will enter the ring during the four day event, where four won matches are required for the championship.
The Chinese squad will be taking part in the tournament for the very first time, with its best boxers including three-time AIBA World Champion Zou Shiming, Olympic Games silver medallist Zhang Zhilei and current Asian Champions Chang Yong and Maimaiti Tuersunqiong.
Cuba is sending AIBA World Champions Lázaro Álvarez and Julio de la Cruz.
The Russian squad will be taking part a strong team, including the Super Heavyweight European Champion Sergey Kuzmin and the medallists from last year’s European Championships.
The English team includes AIBA World Championships silver medallists Luke Campbell and Anthony Joshua.
Hungary does not have a full squad to take part in the tournament. Two-time AIBA World Championships bronze medallist Gyula Káté is unable to take part due to a shoulder operation and 2008 Olympic Games quarter-finalist Imre Szellő will be fighting Bangkok in the WSB on 7th February, but last year’s Champion Balázs Bacskai is in top form and ready to defend his title.
MATCHES TIMETABLE
Qualifiers: 8-9. February 14.00 and 18.00
Opening ceremony: 8. February 17.45
Semi finals: 10. February 14.00
Finals: 11. February 16.00
