DUBAI While there has been a huge interest for mixed martial arts in the UAE, the new Lee Hurford Boxing Academy and Commando Fitness Centre is determined to raise the standard of boxing in a big way.
Situated on Al Meydan Street, the new academy, which houses a state-of-the-art boxing facility, is also equipped with an impressive commando training area, including swimming pool and sauna.
“I want to see professional boxers emerge from the UAE. There is a huge interest in the sport here, but there’s no proper structure to facilitate the growth of the sport,” Hurford told XPRESS.
Great response
A qualified boxing coach, the former Royal Marine Commando has already begun the groundwork, approaching schools to attract young kids to the sport.
“We have been going to schools and giving them free sessions. The response has been great and the kids like it. Here at the academy the kids will get to do different things rather than going through the same grind at a gym. They love climbing up the monkey bars and the ropes.
“We will be emphasising on the discipline part which is key for kids when they are growing,” said Hurford, who is also an Ultra Marathon runner.
“The rugby teams also come and train here. They love the facilities,” he added.
Hurford has handpicked his coaches and has plans to expand them once the summer is over. “We are all qualified coaches from the UK. We are keen on developing boxers here in the UAE. Since Dubai is a place with a multicultural society, we have been getting interests from people of all nationalities.”
Another important plan in Hurford’s list is developing Emirati boxers. “We are registered with the UAE Boxing Association and working closely with the them. They love their boxing and that’s encouraging,” he added.
Hurford is also keen on hosting boxing events in the near future, which he believes will help local boxers gain experience. “We have plans to do a few events by this year end. We are working on it.”
