From a modest Bhiwani boy to the poster boy of Indian sports, Vijender Singh’s rise has been meteoric. But the Olympic medal winner hasn’t taken long to understand the business of modern sport. At the launch of a television reality show where he is slated to play an anchor’s role, Vijender wasn’t apologetic when asked why the other Beijing Olympics hero Sushil Kumar wasn't getting the same kind of attention. “You need to learn how to sell yourself,” he said.

The Indian version of the internationally famous The Contender show will see Vijender stepping into the shoes of Sugar Ray Leonard.

Vijender said that his role will be that of a mentor to the boxers who take part in the show. “I have gone through the struggle that most of our boxers face. I also know the technical part of boxing,” said Vijender.

The shooting schedule will be spread over 45 days and three months, and Vijender insists he will have enough time to prepare for the Commonwealth Games next year. “I have just returned from the World Championships and I have about three to four months before serious training for the Commonwealth Games begins. I have enough time and I will never compromise on my preparation,” said the world championship bronze medallist.