Bronze boxer Tiafack wants to make it "shape" in the future
In the semifinals of the Olympic Games, Nelvie Tiafack gets a harsh reality check. But the atmosphere in the Paris tennis arena Roland Garros enchants the super heavyweight. Among the professionals, the 25-year-old now wants to "make more noise".
Even without the hoped-for final entry, Tiafack's appearance on the prestigious Court Philippe-Chatrier in front of about 14,000 spectators fueled his desire for his upcoming professional career. "Definitely, that's absolutely my thing," said the super heavyweight: "I found it very exciting to box in front of such a large audience, and I hope that was a taste of things to come as a professional."
The 25-year-old suffered a deserved defeat in his last amateur fight. In the Olympic semifinals of the over 92kg weight class, the Cologne native was no match for Tokyo Olympic champion Bakhodir Jalolov from Uzbekistan, who won unanimously on points. Tiafack had already secured the bronze medal, as the semifinal losers share the third place at the Olympics.
Jalolov, who has already fought 14 professional fights without a loss, showed significantly more maturity technically and tactically. "Among the professionals, I will continue to work on my physicality. My punches will also make more noise than here, where it's more about speed and the number of punches," said Tiafack, without a doubt that he could break through among the professionals.
The 2022 European champion did not yet reveal whether he would start his professional career in England or America. But the native Cameroonian is clear: He is "also an interesting fighter for the masses." German amateur boxing has "saved its ass" several times, said the powerhouse, "I hope someone else can now take my place." But much needs to change in the German Boxing Association, especially more funding needs to flow to the talents. And the sport must be included in the Olympic program for Los Angeles 2028. "If boxing isn't Olympic, boxing is dead. Simple," said Tiafack.
As of now, boxing is not included in the Olympic program for 2028. The International Olympic Committee wants to change this only in cooperation with a reliable federation as a partner. The World Boxing Association, founded last year, can hope for the nod.
Despite not achieving his desired gold medal, Tiafack found joy in the large audience and Circular-cross-section arena, fueling his ambition for professional boxing. In his professional career, he aims to make his powerful punches stand out, having a 'Other, of circular cross-section' impact.
