Santo Domingo. The promoter Shuan Boxing issued an official statement this Monday, expressing its firm condemnation of the aggression suffered by referee Smaylin Valdez.
The incident took place on Saturday, May 18, during a fight card at the Karate Pavilion of the Juan Pablo Duarte Olympic Center.
The attack occurred after the conclusion of the fight between Norberto Jiménez and Marcelino Nieves. Unidentified people broke into the ring and physically assaulted referee Valdez. Witnesses suggest that the attack was motivated by dissatisfaction with the outcome of the fight.
We deeply regret what happened. Nothing justifies an act of violence against a sports official. This event tarnishes a night that should have been a night of glory for national boxing.
Shuan Boxing
Shuan Boxing has assured that it is collaborating with the authorities to identify those responsible and ensure they face legal consequences.
The promoter reaffirms its commitment to the safety of all participants and attendees at its events, stating that “preventive measures will be redoubled to protect the integrity of the athletes, officials, and boxing fans.”
This incident adds to another that occurred in July 2024, where the same referee was assaulted by a boxer after stopping a fight.
The repetition of these violent acts has generated concern, reigniting the debate on the need to reinforce security at boxing evenings.
So far, the National Boxing Commission and the Dominican Boxing Federation have not issued official statements regarding this new incident.
Shuan Boxing concluded its statement by reaffirming that it will continue to promote the sport under the values of respect, fair play, and discipline.
