The competition, open to male boxers born in 1998 and 1999, is taking place at the 7,000-capacity venue.

“The Youth World Championships have always offered an important insight into the next wave of talented athletes ready to take the major step into elite-level boxing,” said Ching-Kuo Wu, AIBA President.

“With the help of the local organisers, we are ready to deliver another first-class tournament that reflects the dedication of these young boxers who represent the future of our sport.”

“The 63 countries represented by the 351 boxers who have made it here to Saint Petersburg are testament to our continuing work at AIBA to nourish the grassroots of the sport, especially in those areas where resources are harder to come by.

“I wish all of the boxers good luck and trust that the dedication that has got them this far will fuel long, successful careers.”

Ahead of competition getting underway, a pre-event technical meeting took place for AIBA officials and international technical officials.

Team representatives from each of the competing nations were also present.

Ray Silvas, a supervisor from the United States, provided a run through of the competition format and rules for the Championships.

He confirmed the fifth edition of the event will see all five judges’ scorecards being used to determine the winner of each bout.

Referees and judges for each contest will be decided by the automated Swiss Timing system, along with the draw.

All 10 Olympic weight categories will be contested during the fifth edition of the event, due to take place until November 26.

Robeisy Ramirez of Cuba and Tony Yoka of France, the winner of Olympic gold medals at Rio 2016, are among previous winners from the Youth World Championships.

America's Shakur Stevenson also competed at the 2014 edition of the Championships and went on to secure a Olympic silver medal in the men’s bantamweight competition at Rio 2016.