Karachi : Pakistan Boxing Federation (PBF) president Doda Khan Bhutto Tuesday claimed that former world heavyweight champion Mike Tyson would attend the opening ceremony of the second Benazir Bhutto Shaheed (BBS) International Boxing Tournament starting from Dec 20.
Bhutto said that Tyson would attend the opening ceremony of International Boxing Tournament at Liaquat Gymnasium at Pakistan Sports Complex in Islamabad.
“We have finalised the schedule with Tyson and he will attend the opening ceremony of the event,” said Bhutto.
Tyson, also known as Malik Abdul Aziz, 45, won 50 fights out of 58 and scored 44 knockouts during his career before he retired in 2006. He is ranked No. 16 on The Ring’s list of 100 greatest punchers of all time.
According to official statement, around 35 countries would participate in the event.
“Asian and African countries have confirmed their entries. But we have also sent a request to Poland, France and some other European countries,” he said.
The PBF is waiting for the response from the European nations as the last date for entries is Dec 1.
The main aim of the mega event, which will cost Pakistan approximately $689,655, is to resurrect the image of the country and bring international sports back in the country.
High security arrangements have been organised to provide maximum protection to the players and other sports dignities, who plan to visit Islamabad during the event.
IANS
