Two-Time World Champion Amir Khan, the President of the newly formed World Boxing Council (WBC) Middle East Boxing Council, has laid the foundation to set up the first ever structured boxing governing body in the region and has pledged his commitment to developing the sport for future generations.
The WBC President Mauricio Sulaimán announced last month that Khan and Senior Vice President Tahir (Taz), will spearhead the groundbreaking development of boxing throughout the region under the WBC Middle East Continental Federation that will see flexible and tailored development projects in the individual affiliated countries.
Amir has a long-term, strategic vision for the evolution and advancement of the sport there and believes his considerable experience in every facet of boxing, places him in a unique position as he oversees the implementation of the revolutionary plan and to drive it through with his unwavering verve.
The 33-year-old has experienced everything in his 20 plus years in boxing from the amateur code, where he captured an Olympic Silver Medal in 2004 at just 17, through to the pros where he won a multitude of titles - including the WBC Silver and International belts - and two World titles, while facing the best pound-for-pound fighters of his generation.
In addition to his ring legacy, Amir has acquired a stellar resume outside of the ring from heading his own promotional organisation; experience in negotiating big fights with top promoters; securing agreements with international TV broadcasters, to liaising with governing bodies, managers and fighters. Not to mention his outstanding philanthropy work through the Amir Khan Foundation to help improve the lives of millions of disadvantaged children around the world.
To see boxing established in the Middle East has long been an ambition for Amir which he believes is a major market with untapped potential to establish boxing and to stage major Championship title fights and events that will draw international tourism and a huge benefit to the economies of the countries in the region.
It will not solely be focused on just the big fights though. Through the hugely successful worldwide WBC Cares initiative that enables boxing to give back to society, countries will be benefit from the experience and resources to enhance health and fitness, school and education; women’s boxing and tackling major issues health issues such as obesity.
The 33-year-old will further commit to the long-term project when he moves with his family from his native home in Bolton, England, to relocate to the Middle East where he will oversee the work of his team as they embark on the landmark project.
Amir said, “I’m absolutely thrilled to be appointed as the President of the WBC Middle East Boxing Council by Mauricio and the WBC to head up this incredible and historic project to establish and develop boxing in the region.
“It has long been a dream of mine and Maurcio’s father José, who I consider a dear friend, and I’m delighted to bring our vision to reality with the aim of producing great and proud Champions from the region, but to also return back to the community with health, welfare, education, through the excellent humanitarian work by the WBC Cares programme."
