President of the Jamaica Boxing Association (JBA), Stephen "Bomber" Jones, believes the foundation is being laid for Jamaica to once again produce world champions in boxing, but says the journey must start with development at the grassroots level — supported by stronger regional networks and increased international collaboration.

Speaking with Sportsmax.TV during an interview at the Jamaica Olympic Association headquarters on Monday, Jones outlined the association’s multi-tiered strategy, focusing on expanding the sport into high schools, increasing competition opportunities, strengthening coaching and officiating, and deepening partnerships with international boxing bodies.

"We have the talent," Jones said. "If we can increase the pool, we’ll have more representation. The biggest pool is the schools. Step by step, if we get 16 schools involved, launch a High School Championship, and build from there, I’m confident it can lead to producing world champions again," he said.

"At first, yes. There was resistance — maybe a decade ago. But we’ve worked to show that boxing isn't about violence; it’s about discipline. Now, schools are coming to us. Parents are coming to us. The Gloves Over Guns programme has really taken off, and people are seeing the results — how boxing improves discipline, school behaviour, and life skills. So, the resistance has largely disappeared. Schools are buying into the vision."

Presently, nine schools are engaged with the JBA hoping to bring another three schools on board soon.

Jamaica last produced a world champion in 2012, when Nicholas "Axe Man" Walters captured the WBA featherweight title. Jones said the aim is for such achievements to happen more frequently, much like Jamaica's dominance in track and field, but emphasized that strong foundational systems must be in place first.

Part of that foundation is already taking shape through initiatives like the Gloves Over Guns Futures monthly fight series, providing regular competition opportunities for amateur and professional fighters alike.

However, Jones stressed that these competitions alone are not enough — Jamaica must also build stronger networks internationally to enhance its programmes.

"Our work with World Boxing and the Pan American Confederation is key," he said. "We need to increase our network — connect with like-minded national federations, have more activity, and get help with equipment and resources. Building relationships is critical."

Jones' optimism is bolstered by the recent visits of World Boxing President Boris van der Vorst and PanAm Confederation President Elise Seignolle to Jamaica — significant endorsements of the country's efforts to rebuild its boxing programme. He described their presence as a reflection of Jamaica’s growing importance in the regional boxing community.

Adding further weight to Jamaica's ambitions is Jones' recent appointment as an executive member of the Pan American Confederation Board, a position that places him closer to the sport’s decision-making circles across the hemisphere.

"What we want between the PanAm Confederation and World Boxing is not just more international competitions," he explained, "but stronger Caribbean Championships — events that can become stepping stones toward Olympic qualification, or even offer points toward it. But to achieve that, we need to raise the level of our coaches, officials, and our competitions."

Addressing comparisons with now defunct The Contender, the popular television series that once captivated Jamaica, Jones explained that while it helped boxing’s public profile, the new model must focus more on building professional records critical for gaining international recognition.

"The Contender was great for visibility, but it didn’t build fighters’ official records," he said. "Now, we’re building legitimate records — 10-0, 12-0 fighters — so when international promoters come looking, they’re seeing boxers ready for the big stage."

The goal, Jones said, is to create a "pipeline system" — nurturing talent from high school to elite amateur competition to professional boxing, with clear progression at each level.

"It’s about creating a continuous path — from grassroots to elite, to professional, and ultimately to world champion," Jones said. "And with the right partnerships, stronger networks, and the development of our athletes and officials, Jamaica can get back there."