VYHĽADÁVANIE
Galanta, April 5, 2025 – On Saturday evening, the Municipal Cultural Center in Galanta became the venue for an exceptional boxing gala filled with deep emotions and respect for one of the greatest figures in Slovak boxing – Pavol "Paľo" Kovács (1951–2024). The event, titled The Paľo Kovács Memorial, was organized by his son, well-known boxer and coach Tomi "Kid" Kovács.
The event brought together generations – from experienced veterans to young talents following in the footsteps of their predecessors. It was not just a series of boxing matches, but above all a tribute to a man whose life and approach inspired hundreds of athletes.
Who was Paľo Kovács?
Paľo Kovács was born on April 2, 1951, in Bratislava, but his heart always belonged to sports – especially boxing. Although he initially trained as a bricklayer, his path soon led him into the boxing ring. He began his career at CHZJD Bratislava, and during his military service with Dukla Bratislava, he developed into one of the best boxers in Czechoslovakia.
He was a three-time Slovak champion, took part in 121 league matches, and his greatest international achievement was winning a bronze medal at the prestigious Giraldo Cordova Cardin tournament in Cuba. He became the first Czechoslovak to represent his country at this event – in the very cradle of world boxing.
After ending his active career, he dedicated himself to coaching – sharing his experience with the youth in Galanta and also at the Austrian club Wiener Neustadt. His life embodied discipline, humility, and determination.
Tomi "Kid" Kovács: Son, Boxer, Successor
Paľo Kovács’s son, Tomi "Kid" Kovács, is today a well-known personality in both Slovak and international boxing. A former European champion under the WBO and a world champion under the WBF, he now runs the Tomi Kid Academy in Matúškovo. With his dedication to training the next generation of boxing talents and organizing top-tier events, he shows that boxing has a strong future in Slovakia.
The memorial was more than just a sporting event for him – it was a personal and emotional expression of gratitude to the father who introduced him to the sport and shaped him both as a person and as an athlete.
A Gala Evening Full of Emotion and Boxing
Spectators enjoyed a rich program full of matches, memories, and tributes. The ring featured young talents from the local boxing scene, including students of Tomi Kid. The atmosphere was electric – every punch, every match carried symbolism and deeper meaning.
A particularly touching part of the evening were emotional video montages from the life of Paľo Kovács, personally prepared by his son Tomi. With love, respect, and detailed glimpses into his father’s sports achievements and personal life, the videos moved many audience members. The commemorative words and authentic footage created a unique atmosphere and reminded everyone what an exceptional person Paľo Kovács was.
Former boxer Ivan Zelenák also spoke in tribute to his memory, recalling the early days of Kovács’s career: “I knew Paľo from his very first boxing steps. He started at Slovan Bratislava, where he quickly caught the attention of Dukla Bratislava. He went on to become a three-time Slovak champion and, in 1973, the very first Czechoslovak national boxing champion.”
The Paľo Kovács Memorial became not only a celebration of boxing heritage, but also proof that a true legend lives on – in memories, in legacy, but above all in the people he inspired.
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