M. Marzook
M. Marzook, one of Sri Lanka's most accomplished and technically gifted featherweight boxers, carved an enduring legacy in both local and international boxing through his unmatched skill, discipline, and determination. His journey in the sport began at St. Michael's College, Polwatte, where his natural talent was evident from the very start. Representing his alma mater, Marzook captured the Stubbs Shield Championship for three consecutive years - 1963, 1964, and 1965 an exceptional feat that firmly established him as a dominant force in schoolboy boxing. His stellar performance in 1965 earned him the prestigious Best Boxer Award, marking him as one of the most promising young athletes of his time.
Between 1963 and 1965, Marzook remained undefeated at the Indo-Ceylon Boxing Meets, proudly representing Sri Lanka and demonstrating superior technique against top regional contenders. His first international exposure came in 1964, when he toured Kolkata, India, gaining invaluable experience that strengthened his competitive edge. The year 1965 proved to be a defining one in his career. Marzook was crowned Best Boxer at the Novices Boxing Meet (Up-Country vs. Low-Country), clinched the ABA Intermediate Championship, and went on to capture both the ABA Junior Championship and the Clifford Cup Championship solidifying his position among Sri Lanka's elite boxers.
His crowning international achievement came when he won a bronze medal at the Asian Boxing Championship, held in Sri Lanka for the very first time. In a fiercely contested semifinal, he narrowly lost to a South Korean opponent by a 3-2 split decision, showcasing his courage and competitive spirit at continental level. On the domestic front, Marzook continued to reign supreme. He was adjudged Best Boxer at the National Boxing Championships in 1967 and 19 70, maintaining an unbeaten record for eight consecutive years in the featherweight division a remarkable milestone few have matched. In recognition of his leadership and experience, he was appointed Captain of the Sri Lanka Boxing Team for the 1970 Asian Boxing Championship in the Philippines, and the same year proudly represented Sri Lanka at the Asian Games in Bangkok, Thailand.
Though selected to compete at the 1968 Mexico Olympic Games, Marzook was unable to participate due to foreign exchange restrictions - a deeply unfortunate setback in an otherwise glittering career. Following his retirement from competition, Marzook remained devoted to the sport as a boxing coach, nurturing young talent across schools and institutions. Under his guidance, St. Michael's College, Polwatte won the Junior Boxing Championship, while Hameedia Al-Hussaini College, Colombo, claimed their first-ever Stubbs Shield Championship. He also served as Coach of S. Thomas' College, Mount Lavinia for three years and as Assistant Coach of the Sri Lanka Police Boxing Team for two years, continuing to inspire and shape the next generation of champions.
M. Marzook's illustrious career stands as a shining testament to excellence, perseverance, and national pride. His legacy continues to motivate young boxers across Sri Lanka -reminding them that true greatness is earned through passion, discipline, and heart.