Gilberto Jesus Mendoza, president of the World Boxing Association (WBA), gave an informal motivational talk to a group of boxers from Pereira, Colombia on Tuesday morning, July 17. Jenny Arias, amateur continental champion, was among the attendees.

Mendoza sat around the ring with the young boxers and talked to them about the importance of discipline and dedication they put in everything they do. He also explained the physical, psychological and social benefits of boxing.

“These are the activities I love, sit face to face with young boxers and lend them a hand to help them reach their dreams. You find true boxing here in the gyms of these regions, Mendoza said.

On her part, Jenny Arias was happy with the WBA presence in the Gym.  “This motivates me to keep on fighting for my dreams. This is the first time I can hold a championship belt, but I want to fight for it, and the next time I hold it, it is mine”

Trainer Jud Franklin Granados and Luis Fernando Gomez, President of Risaralda the boxing League also participated in the chat. Both talked about the importance of the visit of Mr Mendoza and and the invitation he makes them to continue fighting for boxing.

The WBA leader did not leave the gym before promising the boxers that from now on they can count on him, and that he will help them improve his training conditions.