DoS Ninvalle hails Dharry’s ‘perseverance, discipline and unwavering belief’

Director of Sport, Steve Ninvalle, has lauded Elton Dharry following his historic rise to world champion status on Saturday evening, describing the achievement as a testament to perseverance, discipline and unwavering belief.

 “The Government of Guyana, through the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, and the National Sports Commission (NSC), has always supported Dharry’s pursuit of a world title, and I am pleased to see him celebrating the realisation of a lifelong journey,” Ninvalle said in a release.

With President Irfaan Ali and members of his Cabinet cheering him on, Dharry etched his name into the nation’s sporting history when he defeated Tanzania’s Salim Kassim by unanimous decision after a gruelling 12-round contest to claim the International Boxing Organisation (IBO) Super Bantamweight title.

The bout, staged at the Pegasus Suites and Corporate Centre, marked a significant milestone as the first male world title fight ever hosted in Guyana- an occasion Ninvalle believes will resonate for years to come.

 “This is a proud moment for Guyana and for boxing,” Ninvalle said.

“Elton Dharry has shown what determination, resilience, and belief can achieve. He never gave up on his dream, and today he stands as a world champion.”

Reflecting on Dharry’s journey, Ninvalle pointed to the fighter’s earlier setback in 2019, when he challenged Australia’s Andrew Maloney for the WBA Super Flyweight title in Melbourne.

That contest was halted in the eighth round by referee Ferlin Marsh due to a severe cut, with Dharry trailing on the judges’ scorecards and ultimately suffering defeat.

According to Ninvalle, that loss proved to be a defining moment in Dharry’s career.

“He made a promise to himself after that fight, that he would return stronger and claim a world title. It took time, patience, and hard work, but he fulfilled that promise,” Ninvalle noted.

Saturday’s clash saw Dharry overcome an uncertain start before asserting control and dominating the latter rounds. The victory improved his professional record to 31-6-1, while Kassim slipped to 11-1-2, suffering the first loss of his career.

Beyond his exploits in the ring, Ninvalle was quick to commend Dharry’s contributions to the sport locally.

He highlighted the champion’s commitment to developing boxing in Guyana, particularly his efforts to support emerging professionals and integrate amateur bouts into his locally promoted cards.

Ninvalle believes Dharry’s success could serve as a catalyst for the sport’s growth, inspiring a new generation of fighters to pursue excellence.