Bringing three International Boxing Organisation (IBO) Asia Pacific titles to Fiji involves significant costs, according to South Pacific Boxing Promotions director Mohammed Shameem. He estimates that organizing the event will exceed $100,000, as it requires the participation of top boxers from the region, their trainers, and IBO officials to comply with regulations, along with meeting requirements from the Boxing Commission of Fiji.
Shameem, who has a deep-rooted passion for boxing stemming from his father’s promotion work in the 1960s, recalled his first boxing experience at the age of six when he watched Filimoni Naliva defeat Marika Naivalu for the Fiji heavyweight title. Now a successful businessman, he remains dedicated to giving back to his community, emphasizing his connection to Fiji. In past years, he assisted in promoting Naliva’s son, Savenaca, to become Fiji’s light heavyweight champion.
The upcoming event will mark Shameem’s 19th promotion, having previously taken boxing events to Ba, Lautoka, and Labasa, while supporting local clubs and boxers. Despite incurring losses in many of his promotions, he finds satisfaction in positively impacting people’s lives.
A highlight of the event will be the arrival of global sports icon Sonny Bill Williams, who is set to engage with schools, communities, and hospitals to raise awareness about the dangers of drugs among youth. The event will feature four title fights, including three IBO titles and one Fiji title, providing a platform for local boxers to showcase their potential for becoming world champions.
In other news, Tonga Tongotongo, Australia’s knockout specialist, has arrived in Fiji to defend his IBO Asia Pacific cruiserweight title against local fighter Sebastian “The Sniper” Singh. Tongotongo, undefeated in his eight fights with all victories by knockouts, acknowledges Singh’s toughness and looks forward to an exciting match.
Additionally, Lachlan O’Shea from Australia will challenge Winston Hill for the IBO Asia Pacific super welterweight title. O’Shea expressed pride in competing as a challenger and anticipates a fierce showdown in the ring.
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