The Armenian National Committee of America – Western Region (ANCA-WR) has announced that it will honor IBO bantamweight boxing champion Vic Darchinyan at the 2011 ANCA-WR Annual Banquet for his stalwart commitment to the Armenian Cause and recognition of theArmenian Genocide throughout his internationally heralded boxing career.

Both in and out of the boxing ring, Darchinyan has been a public and vocal advocate for the Armenian Cause, speaking openly about the Armenian Genocide, and displaying tremendous pride for his heritage, reads the statement of ANCA-WR.

Although he’s a citizen of Australia, Darchinyan always enters the ring carrying the Armenian flag, with rousing Armenian music playing in the background.

“Vic Darchinyan may be classified as a bantamweight by the International Boxing Organization, but he is a heavyweight in the fight to recognize the Armenian Genocide,” said ANCA-WR Chairman Andrew Kzirian. 

“This award reflects the deep pride that the Armenian American community has for Vic Darchinyan. No matter what his professional record reflects, he will always be the people’s champion for his cultural pride and commitment to the Armenian Cause,” he added.