A.V. Tissa Karunarathna
A.V. Tissa Karunarathna stands among the distinguished boxing talents produced by the Sri Lanka Corps of Military Police, marking an era of discipline, power, and technical brilliance inside the ring. His journey through the late 1980s and early 1990s reflects a boxer whose consistency, courage, and commitment elevated him to national recognition.
Tissa Karunarathna began his climb to prominence in 1987, a breakthrough year in which he achieved dual victories. He first captured the Army Novices Championship (48 kg) title and followed it with an impressive triumph at the ABA Novices Championship (48 kg). These victories announced the arrival of a rising star whose determination would soon reshape his division. The year 1988 proved to be one of the most prolific in his career. Karunarathna dominated the Army Championship (45.5 kg), claimed the ABA Intermediate Championship (45.5 kg), and secured the prestigious Layton Cup (45.5 kg)-a remarkable triple crown in a single competitive season. His strong run continued as he earned Runner-Up at the National Championship (45.5 kg), reaffirming his status among the top contenders in Sri Lanka. Karunarathna's excellence and longevity in the sport were further highlighted by his performances in the following years. In 1989, he once again reigned supreme at the Army Championship (45.5 kg), demonstrating his ability to remain at the top of his weight category. Even after several years of elite competition, he returned in 1994 to recapture the Army Championship (45.5 kg) title, proving his discipline and enduring athleticism.
Throughout his career, A.V. Tissa Karunarathna embodied the values of the Sri Lanka Corps of Military Police, honour, strength, and resilience. His achievements continue to inspire young servicemen and boxers across the country, serving as a testament to what can be accomplished through dedication and hard work. The Ceylon Boxing Federation is proud to honour his legacy and celebrate his invaluable contribution to Sri Lankan boxing.