KUCHING: Sarawak’s own Dealoniel Mcdelon Bong, better known as Kilat Boy, has secured his place in the upcoming World Boxing Championship (WBC) Asia event.
His entry into this prestigious competition comes on the heels of a closely contested Featherweight (57.2kg) match against Bangladesh’s Resatul Mahmud Sajin. The bout, which took place at Kemal Ataturk Park in Banani, Dhaka, on Saturday, concluded in a draw, with scores of 57-57, 57-57, and 57-58.
Despite fighting in his opponent’s homeland, Dealoniel demonstrated remarkable resilience and skill, landing powerful punches on Resatul. The fight garnered intense local support for Resatul, pushing him to match Dealoniel’s intensity and leading to a Majority Draw by the sixth round’s conclusion.
“I want to extend my gratitude to everyone who supports and prays for my success. Coming here to face the home boxer was a risk. He was tough, enduring many solid hits, but we managed to last till the 6th round, resulting in a Majority Draw. Although the audience and I felt the victory was clear, I wholeheartedly accept the jury and organisers’ decision,” said Dealoniel.
The slight disappointment from the draw was mitigated by the announcement of Dealoniel’s qualification for the WBC Asia Championship, set to occur in April, with the venue to be decided between Singapore and Sarawak.
Meanwhile, Datuk Rahman Lariwoo, president of the Sarawak State Boxing Association (SABA), lauded Dealoniel’s performance and the draw as an achievement.
He also thanked the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development, Sarawak Sports Corporation (SSC), Sarawak State Sports Council (MSNS), and Sarawak Land Consolidation and Rehabilitation Authority (SALCRA) for their support.
“I am immensely proud of SABA’s role in nurturing top-tier boxers for both Malaysia and Sarawak. Our goal is to continue this success, starting with the Sarawak SUKMA Games, aiming for the top position in boxing,” said Rahman.
