The Ceylon Boxing Federation comprising veteran Sri Lanka boxers will host an inaugural Living Boxing Legend Felicitation Ceremony at Kularathne Hall, Ananda College on February 1 at 5.30 pm honouring past pugilists of the 1960s through to the ‘80s who were instrumental in shaping the country’s destiny in the sport.
Sri Lanka’s boxing legacy is a testament to decades of dedication, hard work and excellence on both the national and international stages and the achievements of boxers of a bygone era not only brought pride to the island but also established a legacy that continues to inspire future generations.
The Ceylon Boxing Federation, founded by a group of past boxers, has long been dedicated to supporting underprivileged athletes, assisting retired boxers and fostering the growth of the sport.
Through their tireless efforts, the Federation has created a professional platform that continues to advance boxing in Sri Lanka, ensuring its success and evolution.
The centerpiece of the evening will be the recognition of 18 living boxing legends that made significant contributions to the sport between the 1960s and 1980s.
In addition to the legendary boxers, two exceptional individuals will receive special recognition for their unique contributions to the sport:
One of them will be Nelka Shiromala, Sri Lanka’s first female Olympic referee, recognised for breaking barriers in a male-dominated sport and paving the way for future female officials, and the other Bandula Ratnapala, a renowned professional boxing coach based in the USA, honoured for his dedication to mentoring and developing boxers at international level.
The Felicitation Ceremony will bring together diplomats, dignitaries and esteemed guests, underscoring the importance of boxing within Sri Lanka’s sports culture.
The evening will be filled with nostalgia and pride, offering the nation a chance to reflect on the journey of Sri Lankan boxing and honor the athletes and individuals who played pivotal roles in its success.
For the Ceylon Boxing Federation, the event is not only a tribute to the past but also a pledge to the future of boxing in Sri Lanka. The mission of the Ceylon Boxing Federation extends far beyond recognition committed to creating pathways for underprivileged athletes, offering opportunities for young boxers to excel and providing support to retired athletes in their post-competition lives.
The following boxing legends will be recognised for their remarkable contributions:
Rtd DIG Sumith Liyanage – Oldest living Olympian
Malcom Bulner – Olympian
H.M. Marzook – Bronze Medalist, Asian Championship
M.Y. Joharan – Asian Boxing Championship Participant
G.A.S. Gunasinghe – Asian Boxing Championship Participant
J.G. Amarasooriya – 1975 King’s Cup Participant
W.V.S.J. Sumanaweera – 1980 Asian Boxing Championship Participant
M. Weerakkody – 1975 Kings Cup Participant
Chavo De Kauwe – Silver Medalist, Asian Boxing Championship
K.A.D. Luxman – 1978 Asian Games Participant
D.W. Weerasinghe – 1978 Asian Games Participant
H.S. Caldera – 1978 Asian Games Participant
W.M. Chithrananda – 1979 Ino-Sri Lanka Boxing Tournament Participant
D.J. Neththikumara – 1979 Ino– Sri Lanka Boxing Tournament Participant
T.J. Chandradasa – 1979 Ino-Sri Lanka Boxing Tournament Participant
D.A. Rupasinghe – 1979 Ino-Sri Lanka Boxing Tournament Participant
