French-Senegalese boxer Souleymane Cissokho announced on Thursday 28 November that he will postpone his WBC world welterweight semi-final, scheduled for Malabo, Equatorial Guinea on 7 December, due to an injury to his right hand, according to the press release from the organizers of the fight . The Rio 2016 Olympic Games bronze medalist was injured on Wednesday evening during his training in Paris, while preparing for the fight against Lithuania’s Egidijus Kavaliauskas, with a ticket to the final of the WBC World Championship (-66.678 kg) at stake ). “It is obviously a disappointment not to be able to compete in this fight on the scheduled date, and moreover in Africa, the continent where I was born,” reacted Souleymane Cissokho, quoted in the press release. I have worked very hard over the past few months to prepare for this very important deadline. » At the end of the tests carried out on Thursday morning, the boxer and the organizers of the fight decided to postpone the event, “the date of which will be established as soon as possible. The location of the fight, in Equatorial Guinea, will remain unchanged”, reads the press release. Cissokho, 33, who has won all his professional matches (17) should have in Kavaliauskas (bronze medal at the 2011 World Championships as an amateur) a formidable opponent, whose record is 24 wins, one draw and two defeats since turning professional in 2012.
What steps can Cissokho take during his recovery to ensure he maintains his competitive edge?
Interview with Boxing Expert on Souleymane Cissokho’s Injury and Its Impact on the WBC World Welterweight Semi-Final
Time.news Editor (TNE): Thank you for joining us today. We’re here to discuss the recent announcement that French-Senegalese boxer Souleymane Cissokho has had to postpone his WBC world welterweight semi-final match due to an injury. Can you provide insights into the implications of this postponement for Cissokho and the boxing community?
Expert (E): Thank you for having me. It’s certainly disappointing for both Cissokho and his fans. Postponements like this can have a ripple effect not just on the fighter’s career but also on the promotion of the event itself.
TNE: What does this injury mean for Cissokho’s preparation and his upcoming career trajectory?
E: Injuries, especially to key areas like the hands for boxers, can be particularly concerning. For Cissokho, who has been training intensely for this fight against Egidijus Kavaliauskas, this setback might hamper his momentum. Nonetheless, with his track record—17 wins in his professional career—he still holds a promising position in the sport. It’s important for him to ensure a full recovery before stepping back into the ring to avoid long-term issues.
TNE: The fight was to take place in Equatorial Guinea—how significant is this event for African boxing?
E: Hosting such a prominent fight on the African continent is a huge step forward in promoting boxing in the region. It highlights growing opportunities for African boxers on the international stage. The postponement not only affects Cissokho but also impacts the visibility and promotional efforts for boxing in Africa.
TNE: Can you elaborate on the characteristics of Egidijus Kavaliauskas as an opponent and how this injury might play into their future matchup?
E: Kavaliauskas is a formidable opponent with an impressive record of 24 wins, one draw, and two losses, plus experience at the amateur level with a bronze medal in the 2011 World Championships. Cissokho is going to need every moment to prepare. This injury can alter fight strategies; his recovery timeline will be crucial. Both boxers need to assess how they’ve changed during the time apart and adapt their game plans accordingly once the fight date is rescheduled.
TNE: What advice do you have for boxers who experience injuries leading up to important matches?
E: First and foremost, prioritizing recovery is key. Listening to the body is essential. It’s vital for fighters to work closely with medical professionals to ensure they’re not rushing back into training or competing too early. Secondly, maintaining engagement with fans and the media through updates helps keep their support alive despite the setbacks and builds anticipation for the rescheduled fight.
TNE: Thank you for these insights. As we await the new date for this exciting match in the WBC World Championship, what can boxing fans look forward to from Cissokho and the fighter community in the interim?
E: Fans should anticipate a stronger comeback from Cissokho, provided he allows adequate recovery time. The promotion will likely ramp up engagement activities in the meantime, creating excitement around the eventual rescheduled fight. It’s a waiting game, but injuries are part of sports, and resilience often leads to even greater achievements.
TNE: Thank you for your perspective today. It’s critical for fans to stay informed about these developments in the boxing world.
E: Absolutely, and it’s always a pleasure to discuss the evolving landscape of boxing. Let’s hope for a swift recovery and an electrifying fight ahead for both Cissokho and Kavaliauskas.
