Alexander Zammit, Malta Boxing Federation secretary, writes:

The executive committee of the Malta Boxing Federation, in answer to the article 'Taking Maltese boxing to a new level' (The Times, August 28), feels it is their responsibility to inform readers of this newspaper that the federation cannot extend or offer support to organisations or individuals which are not affiliated within its fold.

Moreover, it cannot assist in any way clubs, boxers or organisations which are either practising professional boxing or do not conform to AIBA (International Amateur Boxing Association) regulations.

The EBU (European Boxing Union) caters for professional boxers. The federation, on the other hand, abides by the rules of IABA, the ruling boxing body recognised by the International Olympic Committee (IOC).

Boxing is a wonderful sport which offers different avenues to those who practise it seriously. At some point, boxers have to make a choice between remaining in the amateur ranks, and thus qualifying to participate under the Olympic banner, or to turn professional and make a living out of the sport.

In all honesty, we wish John Essex and the professional organisation he represents in Malta, the EBU, the very best. We hope that those who choose the professional road of boxing with the EBU (or any other similar organisation) will honour themselves and the country.

As for the federation, our aims are a bit more simplistic... our target is to live and compete within the Olympic ideal and follow the guidelines of AIBA. Mud-slinging and bombastic claims for publicity are not our style and will never be.

We would also like to make it clear that the Malta Boxing Federation completely disassociates itself from any of the tournaments and boxing matches which are being held regularly in Malta.

The use of our name on any publicity or poster is not allowed and further more the initials MBF on promotion material being distributed do not refer to our federation.