Boxing event signals respect, diversity, and unity in the face of racism
Duisburg Boxing Club Hosts "Boxing Against Racism" Event
Duisburg, Germany - Last weekend's renovated Dreifachsporthalle at Beckerloh 81 was a testament to fair sportsmanship, integration, and a clear stance against racism. The Walsumer Box Club Duisburg e.V. 1957 (W.B.C.-Duisburg) hosted the "Boxing Against Racism" event, attracting over 40 clubs from around the nation.
For two days, boxing matches captivated the audience, celebrations took place, and a strong message was conveyed: sports foster unity, and racism has no place in society.
At 16:00, the club's first chairman, Seyit Cakir, opened the event, emphasizing the unique opportunity sports, particularly boxing, provide for connection among individuals of diverse cultures, religions, and social backgrounds. "In the ring, we are all equal," said Cakir, emphasizing the camaraderie that develops post-match, regardless of the outcome.
The relevance of this topic in 2025 was palpable. Cakir underscored the importance of consistently showing public support, especially at times when exclusion, hate, and biases are increasingly apparent. "Events like these are more than just sports—they are encounters, education, and a message in one," he added.
Top-tier clubs such as FC St. Pauli from Hamburg participated, demonstrating the event's significance. Many teams stayed overnight, indicating the growing importance of this initiative.
Local politics acknowledged the W.B.C.-Duisburg's commitment. District Mayor Georg Salomon, SPD faction leader Detlef Frese, and councilwoman Ilonka Frese were present, praising the club's work and its impact on the city.
The weekend offered an abundance of sports action, with over 20 thrilling matches on Saturday and 18 final bouts on Sunday, where athletes fought for medals and recognition. The atmosphere at the hall was marked by mutual respect, pride, and genuine enthusiasm—reflections of genuine sportsmanship.
Words of appreciation went out to sponsors, notably Trinkgut Walsum, and the event's organizing team, led by Mehmet Kesgin, Managing Director and Trainer, and Susan Ginaldi, Board Member. Elvir Adrovic, Youth and Sports Officer of the North Rhine district, also earned recognition for his support in scheduling the matches.
With the 25th Duisburger City Boxing Championships set for September 20 and 21, 2025, the club is already looking forward to hosting more events promoting unity and equality. The event's success serves as a shining example of how sports can bridge divides and create a more inclusive society.
At the "Boxing Against Racism" event, Dukeburg Boxing Club highlighted the role of sports, specifically boxing, in fostering diversity and inclusion within the business of sports. Seyit Cakir, the club's first chairman, emphasized that sports provide opportunities for connection among individuals from diverse cultures, religions, and social backgrounds, asserting, "In the ring, we are all equal." This event, in partnership with top-tier clubs like FC St. Pauli, demonstrates the financial support and commitment of the community to promote unity and combat racism in society.
