From Fighting Spirit to a Sports Industry: Vietnamese Boxing’s New Blueprint

Dr. Pham Quang Long, President of the Vietnam Boxing Federation: “Digital media is the second ring of modern boxing``. (Photo: Courtesy of the subject)

Building a New Boxing Ecosystem

WAJ: As the newly elected President of the Vietnam Boxing Federation, what strategic priorities will you set in your first 12 months to lay a solid foundation for the sustainable development of Vietnamese boxing amid deepening international sports integration?

Dr. Pham Quang Long, President of the Vietnam Boxing Federation: In the first 12 months, we will focus on three pillars: standardizing the training system, reforming governance with transparency, and activating a media - commercial ecosystem.

The world is undergoing major transformations in media, collaboration, and innovation, and Vietnam is on the right path. We aim to digitalize athlete data, align with international standards, and lay the foundation for boxing as a true sports industry.

WAJ: How do you assess the current position of Vietnamese boxing on the regional and global boxing map?

Dr. Pham Quang Long: Vietnam has made its mark regionally, especially in women’s boxing, but we remain in a “developing potential” phase. Our ecosystem is not yet strong enough for sustained success. However, our strength lies in fighting spirit and adaptability, which can drive rapid progress if properly structured.

WAJ: In your view, what are the key gaps Vietnamese boxing must close to compete more effectively at the continental and Olympic levels?

Dr. Pham Quang Long: The key gaps are sports science, professional competition systems, and youth depth. We must integrate sports medicine, data, and technology into training, while creating more high-quality domestic competitions to improve performance.

WAJ: What specific strategies do you have to build a comprehensive boxing ecosystem that connects grassroots, semi-professional, and professional levels?

Dr. Pham Quang Long: We are building a pyramid ecosystem: broad grassroots, strong semi-professional, and elite professional levels. Clubs, training centers, competitions, and businesses will be connected into a unified value chain with shared standards and data.

 When Boxing Enters the Sports Economy

WAJ: As sports become increasingly linked with the economy, what will you do to attract investment, sponsorship, and promote the commercialization of boxing in Vietnam?

Dr. Pham Quang Long: To attract investment, we must create value. We will transform boxing into an engaging sports–entertainment product with media rights, audiences, and compelling narratives. Vietnam is entering a strong era of innovation, and boxing must be part of that creative economy.

WAJ: Transparency and good governance are crucial in modern sports development. What steps will you take to enhance transparency and build trust with the public and international partners?

Dr. Pham Quang Long: Transparency is the foundation of trust. We will standardize officiating, publicize competition systems, and apply technology in governance. Once trust is established, international cooperation and resources will follow.

WAJ: How do you view the role of media especially digital platforms in enhancing the image and appeal of Vietnamese boxing?

Dr. Pham Quang Long: Digital media is the “second ring” of modern boxing. The world is rapidly transforming in communication and collaboration, and Vietnam is on the right path by leveraging digital platforms to tell its story. We aim to build a strong content ecosystem to bring Vietnamese boxing to a global audience.

A Long-Term Vision for Vietnamese Boxing

WAJ: What are your plans to identify, develop, and retain young talents, especially those with the potential to compete at the ASIAD and Olympic Games?

Dr. Pham Quang Long: We will establish early talent identification systems, connecting schools, clubs, and localities, while providing clear career pathways and competitive environments to retain athletes long-term.

Dr. Pham Quang Long (first from left) with international leaders.(Photo: Courtesy of the subject)

WAJ: Looking ahead five years, how would you like the international boxing community to perceive Vietnam?

Dr. Pham Quang Long: In five years, I want Vietnam to be seen as a dynamic, professional, and culturally rich boxing hub in Asia. Not only through achievements, but through systems, markets, and identity. Vietnamese boxing will symbolize a nation rising through determination, intellect, and innovation.

WAJ: Our thanks to Dr. Pham Quang Long for taking part in this conversation and for sharing his insights with us.