Japan Suspends Boxing For One Month Due to Concerns Over Coronavirus!
The coronavirus is making its imprint on the sport of boxing. In a stunning development that is alarming to say the least, on February 26, the Japanese Boxing Commission (JBC), as well as the Japanese Professional Boxing Association (JPBA) announced they will suspend all boxing activities starting March 1, 2020.
According to Asian Boxing, the suspension will be for one month and is a reaction to the growing coronavirus outbreak. It’s a preventative measure in hopes of stopping the spread of the virus in Japan.
And while the suspension will be for one month at this time, it could be extended if concerns remain and the outbreak spreads.
RAMIFICATIONS
At press time, there are sixteen events set to take place in Japan in March. It is unknown if those events will proceed as scheduled.
This is not the first time concerns about the coronavirus has had an impact on the sport. WBC/WBO Super Lightweight champion Jose Ramirez had to cancel and eventually reschedule/relocate his upcoming defense against Viktor Postol due to concerns about the virus.
It’s highly concerning not just for boxing in Japan, but throughout the continent of Asia and possibly worldwide.
Questions remain as to how this will affect the sport in Japan long-term. Especially if the suspension in the country lasts longer than one month? And how does this affect the fighters, be it those who are fighting domestically or Japanese boxers who have bouts scheduled outside of the country? One Japanese superstar, WBA/IBF world Bantamweight champion Naoya Inoue, is set to face WBO world Bantamweight champ John Riel Casmiero in the United States on April 25.
There’s been no word on how the major managers and promoters will react to the JBC’s and JBA’s decision. However, expect announcements to come over the next few days. Stay tuned to 3KingBoxing for further developments on this very evolving and fluid situation.
By: Michael Wilson Jr.
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