Amateur boxing in Guyana: Desmond Amsterdam now ranked Guyana’s number one fighter

On the heels of yet another bronze medal performance on the international stage, the pugilist Desmond Amsterdam has surged to the top of the rankings in amateur boxing in Guyana.

Amsterdam’s feat of becoming the highest-ranked Guyanese boxer under the International Boxing Association (IBA) is a direct result of his impressive exploits at the prestigious Americas Boxing Confederation (AMBC) Elite Championships in February and the more recent South American Games in Paraguay. He has brought home bronze medals on both occasions.
His status has been confirmed following publication of the latest rankings by the world authority. According to the standings, the AMBC Elite middleweight bronze medalist has risen to the rank of 23rd. This is Amsterdam’s first-ever rating under the IBA, formerly AIBA.
Usually reserved in his attitude, Amsterdam lost to Benjamin Grimaux of Argentina in the semi-final round of action in the South American Games. The unfortunate defeat transpired after the Guyana Defence Force Sergeant had made light work of Diego Mejia of Venezuela in the previous quarterfinal round of action.
Amsterdam also competed at the 2022 Commonwealth Games in August and secured a quarterfinal finish. The aforementioned also played a significant role in his rapid ascension in the world standings.
Guyana Boxing Association (GBA) President Steve Ninvalle has said Amsterdam’s meteoric rise both locally and regionally is a direct by-product and derivative of his commitment, discipline, and overall dedication to the sport. According to Ninvalle, Amsterdam’s current trajectory illustrates what can be achieved via the platform of sport if long-term structured developmental programmes are appropriately implemented.
He added that the GBA applauds the pugilist on his accomplishment, a feat which could not have been realised without “good old-fashioned hard work”.
Ninvalle has also congratulated featherweight boxer Keevin Allicock, who also secured a bronze medal at the South American Games. Allicock is currently ranked 54th in his division, whereas he was previously ranked 19th.