Turkish Cypriot national boxer and European champion Metin Turunç, known as "Iron Fist" (Demir Yumruk), is preparing to step into the ring in November to compete for a WBC belt. The bout is scheduled over eight rounds, and his opponent is expected to be confirmed in the coming days.
Turunç, who has won four championship belts so far in his career, is training intensively with the aim of adding a new title to his record. The boxer hopes to claim the WBC belt as his next milestone.
Despite his achievements while representing the north on the international stage, Turunç said he has received no support from officials. He stressed that he has largely funded his career with his own means, adding that only Gönyeli-Alayköy Mayor Hüseyin Amcaoğlu and Cevdet, the owner of Fina Petrol, have stood by him.
"I have lived in this country for 25 years and I am a citizen. I am flying our flag around the world. But even though I have won four belts, state officials could not even bring themselves to give me a plaque or say thank you," Turunç said.
Despite the difficulties, Turunç emphasised that he will continue to proudly carry the flag in international competition.
