S. B. Kiridena
B. B. Kiridena stands tall as one of the outstanding figures in Sri Lankan boxing, particularly during the early 1950s. A proud product of St. Sylvester's College, Kandy, he made an indelible mark as a schoolboy boxer, being adjudged Best Boxer at the ABA Novices and later emerging as a Champion at the ABA Intermediates, achievements that reflected his exceptional talent and competitive spirit at a young age.
Beyond his success in the ring, Mr. Kiridena devoted his life to the development of boxing as a respected coach, administrator, and official. As a highly regarded coach, he nurtured and guided champion teams at several leading institutions, including Trinity College, Kandy, Vidyartha College, Kandy, Walisinghe Harischandra College, Anuradhapura; and the Sri Lanka Police - Kandy Division, among others. His coaching legacy is remembered for discipline, technical excellence, and the ability to inspire young boxers to reach their full potential. Mr. Kiridena also played a pivotal role in the organization and promotion of boxing in the Central Province. As Secretary of the Central Province Boxing Organization, he was a driving force behind the successful conduct of numerous tournaments, significantly contributing to the growth and popularity of the sport in the region.
His service extended to officiating and administration at national level. A qualified Referee and Judge of the Amateur Boxing Association of Sri Lanka (1982 batch), Mr. Kiridena later held key administrative positions, including Treasurer of the Amateur Boxing Association of Sri Lanka and Secretary of the Schools Boxing Association of Sri Lanka. His leadership and integrity earned him wide respect within the boxing fraternity. Adding to his distinguished career, Mr. Kiridena represented the country as Manager of the Sri Lanka National Boxing Team that toured Hyderabad, India, in the early 1980s-an honour that reflected his standing and commitment to Sri Lankan boxing. B. B. Kiridena's contribution to the sport spans generations-as a champion boxer, a master coach, a dedicated official, and a visionary administrator. His enduring legacy continues to inspire the boxing community and remains an integral part of Sri Lanka's rich boxing heritage.