Vietnam prepares to host first world boxing tournament

The Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism of Quang Ngai Province plans to host the clash at the central province's Pham Van Dong Sport Stadium on Feb. 27 next year.

The tournament, organized by Vietnam Boxing Federation and HCMC-based boxing gym Cocky Buffalo, will feature eight bouts, to include Vietnam’s first female Asia Pacific boxing champion Nguyen Thi Thu Nhi and Japanese boxer Etsuko Tada.

Earlier this year, Nhi defeated Kanyarat Yoohanngoh of Thailand in 10 rounds to take the World Boxing Organization (WBO) Asia Pacific minimumweight crown in Cambodia.

Vietnam has high hopes for the 24-year-old since she could become the first Vietnamese to bring home the world title.

Kim Sang Bum, president of Cocky Buffalo, said both local and foreign contestants would adhere to quarantine requirements. Live audiences will have their body temperature screened before attending the event. Spectators will also need to wear face masks and be seated at a distance.