Tauranga-based boxer Wesley Cameron is stepping onto the world stage this week as he represents New Zealand at the prestigious World Amateur Boxing Championships in Liverpool, England, running from September 4–14.

Cameron’s boxing journey began in Waihī under the guidance of Waihī Boxing, where he first laced up the gloves as a junior.

Now competing in the elite category, he trains out of Bay Boxfit gym in Tauranga alongside former top-10 ranked professional boxer Gunnar Jackson, boxing commentator Benjamin Watt said in a statement this week.

Watt said the 18-year-old has already made a name for himself, claiming the 2024 New Zealand National Amateur Youth Championship title in the 71kg division.

“This year marks his debut in the elite category, and he’s wasted no time making an impact – recently earning a silver medal at the 2025 Queensland Open International Golden Gloves.

“His performance in Queensland has caught the attention of New Zealand Boxing, who are closely monitoring athletes ahead of next year’s Commonwealth Games team selection.

“Success at the national championships, Queensland Golden Gloves, and the World Championships will be key factors in the final decision.”

Watt said Cameron faces a tough road in Liverpool, starting in the round of 64 preliminaries.

“To reach the top of the podium, he’ll need to win six consecutive bouts. His first challenge comes tonight [UK time] against Lithuanian boxer Aleksandr Trofimcuk, currently ranked 139th in the world on Boxrec.”

Trofimcuk brings a wealth of experience, with more than 60 amateur fights and multiple national titles.

Should Cameron advance, Watt said his next opponent will be Mongolian boxer Byambaerdene Otgonbaatar, ranked 138th globally – another seasoned fighter with a strong international amateur record.

Cameron is one of seven athletes flying the New Zealand flag at the World Championships, alongside Taj Kagho, Emma Nesbitt, Ali Lai-Carlyle, Jordan Wilson, Morgan Henderson and Celine Lee-Lo.

“As the bell rings in Liverpool, all eyes back home will be on Cameron – a rising star with grit, talent and a growing list of accolades," said Watt.