A local boxing coach could be in hot water for his behaviour during the Clive Atwell/Dexter Gonsalves lightweight championship fight held on October 24 at the Giftland Mall. A usually reliable source told the Chronicle Sport that the coach was on Thursday summoned in front of the Disciplinary Committee of the Guyana Boxing Board of Control to explain his behaviour during the Atwell/Gonsalves fight which was won by the latter.
“The board is of the belief that this particular coach acted in a way that was indicative of disrespect for the sport. He was called in by the professional board and a decision would be made next week on whether to suspend him,” the source said.
The coach has been asked to give a written response following which deliberation on the way forward would begin. The source added that both the GBBC and the Guyana Amateur Boxing Association are bent on stamping out indiscipline in the sport.
‘The plan is to make it known that no one is above the sport be it administrator, coach or boxer. Anyone found in breach will be dealt with condignly,” the source said.
The October 24th fight ended in controversy after Atwell, who was well ahead on the judges score sheets fell to the ground claiming an injury to his leg. Unable to continue, the fight was awarded to Gonsalves.
Atwell has since undergone surgery to rectify massive intracranial hemorrhage and general swelling to the brain which according to one medical practitioner could signal the end to the boxer’s career.