Has Vijender Singh set a wrong precedent for young Indian boxers?

New Delhi: While other countries' preparations for the next year's Rio Olympics are in full swing, India's preparations suffered a major setback as renowned boxer Vijender Singh turned pro on Monday, bringing down curtains to his national career.

It was a heartbreaking moment for boxing lovers as Vijender, India's first boxer to win an Olympic medal, signed a multi-year deal with Queensberry Promotions, owned by Francis Warren, where he will fight at least six times in the first year in middleweight category.

While the decision could do wonders to the boxer's financial status, it could also possibly set a wrong precedent for the upcoming Indian boxers, who want to represent India in major sporting events.

Ever since the epic bout between Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao took place in May earlier in year, the amount of money these two pugilists earned has been a matter of discussion across the world.

But going forward, Vijender will have to wait for at least 12 to 18 months before going for the big-ticket bouts.

Till then he will be training and sharpening his skills under renowned trainer Lee Beard, who has helped several boxers in the past turn pro.

Vijender's decision to turn pro means he won't represent India at next year's Rio Olympics. Vikas Krishan will represent India in middleweight category.

As per the rules, once a boxer turns professional, he cannot compete at an amateur level.

The International Boxing Association (AIBA) allows only those boxers who are a part of its pro boxing competition, AIBA Pro Boxing (APB), to compete in the Olympics.

Notably in 2008, Vijender became the first Indian pugilist to win an Olympic medal when he won bronze in Beijing.