Imphal: The Governor of Manipur, Ajay Kumar Bhalla, today graced the opening ceremony of the 4th Governor’s Cup Boxing Championship, 2026, organised by the Manipur Amateur Boxing Association. The championship features competitions across various age categories, including Under-15 Boys and Girls, Under-17 Boys and Girls, Under-19 Men and Women, and Elite Men and Women. The tournament aims to provide a competitive platform for emerging and established boxers, nurture young sporting talent and promote boxing in the State. The championship, which commenced today, will continue until November 15, 2026.
The Minister for Home, and Youth Affairs & Sports, Konthoujam Govindas Singh, and the MLA of Mayang Imphal, Shri Kongkham Robindro Singh, also attended the opening ceremony. The ceremony witnessed the participation of prominent sports personalities, officials of the Manipur Amateur Boxing Association, coaches and young athletes, marking the commencement of the championship.
Addressing the gathering, Governor highlighted Manipur’s rich boxing legacy and acknowledged the achievements of its boxers at national and international competitions. He noted that the State has produced Olympians, Asian Games and Commonwealth Games medallists, as well as Arjuna and Dronacharya Award recipients. Emphasising the need to nurture emerging talent, he called for quality coaching, scientific training, improved sporting facilities and greater opportunities for athletes to compete at higher levels.
The Governor urged the participating boxers to uphold discipline, courage and sportsmanship, noting that the values developed through sports are as important as winning medals. He expressed hope that the championship would identify promising talent and inspire future champions, further strengthening Manipur’s proud boxing legacy. The Governor also witnessed the opening bout of the championship.
