📅 Event Date: June 28, 2025
📍 Venue: Asad Arena International Ltd., Aftabnagar, Dhaka
🎤 Organized by: AF Boxing Promotion | Sanctioned by: BPBS & BPBA
In the heat of boxing battles—when adrenaline surges, punches fly, and the roar of the crowd fills the arena—there are a few calm presences who maintain the balance between chaos and control: the referees.
At JB BOXING CHAMPIONSHIP SEASON-3, two individuals stood inside the squared circle, ensuring safety, fairness, and the highest standard of officiating:
👨⚖️ A F M Maruf and AK Tanha
These referees were more than rule enforcers—they were protectors of the sport, the fighters, and the event’s integrity.
🎯 The Referee’s Mission: Split-Second Decisions with Long-Term Impact
Referees hold one of the most demanding roles in professional boxing. From the first bell to the final count, they are responsible for:
- Maintaining fighter safety at all times
- Judging knockdowns, stoppages, and fouls in real-time
- Intervening swiftly in dangerous situations
- Upholding the sport’s rules without disrupting the flow of combat
At JB BOXING CHAMPIONSHIP SEASON-3, where several bouts ended in explosive first-round TKOs, their vigilance was essential in protecting fighters—especially debutants—from unnecessary punishment.
🧑⚖️ Meet the Men Behind the Whistle
🥊 A F M Maruf – The Ring’s Commander
A highly respected official in Bangladesh’s boxing circuit, Referee Maruf officiated five of the seven bouts during the event. His presence was commanding yet calm, and his timing impeccable.
Key Responsibilities at JB Season-3:
- Refereed Bout 1, 3, 4, 6, and 7
- Made three critical TKO stoppages at exactly the right moment
- Balanced firm officiating with respect for fighter performance
Memorable Moment:
In Bout 1, he stepped in at 0:45 of Round 2, stopping the contest as Rayhan Islam could no longer defend against Hasan Sikder’s barrage—an intervention praised for its precision and care.
“I watch with instinct, but I act with logic,” Maruf shared. “My role is to protect both the fighter’s health and their dignity.”
🥊 AK Tanha – Cool Under Pressure
Referee AK Tanha handled bouts 2 and 5, including the high-profile women’s match between Lima Tripura and Rabeya Akter Mim. His smooth and decisive presence ensured the flow of action remained uninterrupted.
Key Responsibilities at JB Season-3:
- Refereed Bout 2 and 5
- Delivered stoppages with clarity and fairness
- Communicated with corners and judges efficiently
Memorable Moment:
In Bout 5, with just 3 seconds left in Round 1, Tanha stopped the fight after Mohammad Salman unleashed a clinical combo on Md Shafiqul Islam Robin, avoiding unnecessary damage in a moment that required flawless judgment.
“Every second counts in the ring,” Tanha said. “You don’t wait for chaos—you act before it comes.”
⚖️ Why Referees Deserve the Spotlight
Referees are often overlooked in post-fight celebrations. Yet their presence is crucial in shaping:
- Fight outcomes with fairness
- The health trajectory of athletes
- The public trust in a sport where one bad call can spark controversy
At JB Season-3, there were zero disputes, zero disqualifications, and zero protests—a testament to the flawless officiating.
🥇 A Salute from the Community
Fighters, coaches, and fans alike took to social media and press outlets to praise the referees’ work. Comments included:
- “Referee Maruf was sharp and in control—respect!”
- “AK Tanha handled that women’s bout with calm precision. Loved it.”
- “Not one bad stoppage all night. These refs are pros!”
🗣️ Voices of Appreciation
🎙 Md Asaduzzaman, Supervisor & Secretary General of BPBA, remarked:
“We train and expect the best from our referees—and they delivered beyond expectations tonight. Their integrity gives our fighters the confidence to perform fearlessly.”
🎙 Commissioner Md. Mushfiqur Rahman Rahul added:
“We saw professionalism at its finest. From the first bell to the last count, our referees upheld every standard of international boxing. They deserve our utmost respect.”
🏁 Final Word: The Silent Champions
While boxers throw punches for glory, referees stand tall to defend the rules, protect lives, and preserve the beauty of the sport.
At JB BOXING CHAMPIONSHIP SEASON-3, A F M Maruf and AK Tanha proved once again why a great event isn’t just about the fighters—it’s about the integrity of those who govern the ring.
To our referees:
Thank you for your eyes, your heart, and your unwavering discipline.
Bangladesh boxing is stronger because of you.
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