The BK Power boxing member celebrated in the round of 16 of the 65 kg category against a Croatian boxer Andjelka Crnogorca, and convincingly – by unanimous decision of the judges 5:0. Dabović imposed a high rhythm and control of the fight from the very beginning. With an aggressive, but tactically mature approach, he quickly took the initiative, hit with precise combinations and kept his opponent under constant pressure. Already in the first round, he forced the referee to count the Croatian fighter, who was barely on his feet until the first break. In the rest of the match, the Montenegrin boxer demonstrated great technique, good movement and enviable physical fitness, leaving no doubt about the final outcome. Dabović's rival in the quarterfinals on Sunday will be the Serbian national team player Petar Sandic, who eliminated his compatriot in the round of 16 Tarik Rasljanin, by the judges' decision 4:1.
Second Montenegrin representative at the tournament Vasilije Kujundzic will fight against the Ukrainian in the semifinals of the 90 kg category on Monday Vladislava Naumenka.
Before the competition program on the first day, the opening ceremony of the tournament, which this year brought together 130 fighters from 18 countries, was held in the Congress Hall of the “Splendid” hotel, with the singing of the national anthem and a ceremonial parade of flags. Budva once again confirmed its status as a city of sports and a good host, and the jubilee edition of the tournament ranked this event among the most significant youth boxing events in the region.
At the beginning of the ceremony, those present were greeted by the President of the Boxing Federation of Montenegro, Alexander Klemenko, who pointed out that the continuity of 35 years speaks to the quality of the organization and commitment to the development of young athletes.
-This tournament is not just a competition, but an opportunity for young boxers to gain experience, build sports friendships and feel the spirit of fair play. We are proud that Montenegro and Budva have been successfully organizing an event that brings together young talents from all over the world for three and a half decades., said Klemenko.
The tournament was officially opened by the President of the Municipality of Budva. Nikola Jovanovic, emphasizing the importance that this sports event has for both Budva and Montenegrin sports as a whole.
–Thirty-five years of continuity speak louder than any words. Budva is a city of sports, a city of youth and a city that knows how to be a good host. We are proud that we have hosted numerous champions over the years and that our city is recognized not only for its tourism, but also for its top-notch organization of sporting events – from boxing to numerous other disciplines, Jovanovic pointed out.
He added that the Municipality of Budva will continue to strongly support sports and events that promote true values - a healthy lifestyle, togetherness and international cooperation.
In the coming days, the audience can expect exciting matches and the opportunity to see some of today's most promising young boxers in action, while Budva will once again be the center of youth boxing and a meeting place for sport, friendship, and competitive spirit.