Bringing three International Boxing Organisation (IBO) Asia Pacific titles to Fiji comes with significant expenses. The event requires the participation of top regional boxers, their trainers, and IBO officials to comply with all regulations and requirements from the Boxing Commission of Fiji.
Mohammed Shameem, director of South Pacific Boxing Promotions, mentioned that he has invested over $100,000 to organize this promotion. Speaking to SUNsports, the Vancouver-based businessman shared that his passion for boxing began in the 1960s, influenced by his late father, Noor Mohammed, a boxing promoter.
“I was six years old when I attended my first boxing match promoted by my dad at Ba’s Civic Theatre, where Filimoni Naliva defeated Marika Naivalu for the Fiji heavyweight title,” he recalled. Despite his success in business, Shameem maintains a strong connection to Fiji, contributing to local communities.
He reflected on his return a few years ago, where he assisted in promoting Naliva’s son, Savenaca, to become Fiji’s light heavyweight champion. Tomorrow’s event will mark his 19th promotion, with previous events held in Ba, Lautoka, and Labasa, supporting local boxers and clubs.
Shameem acknowledged the losses he has faced in previous promotions but finds satisfaction in his ability to impact people’s lives positively.
Additionally, sports legend Sonny Bill Williams is set to arrive today as the chief guest for the event, planning to engage with schools and communities to discuss the dangers of drug use.
“This is the biggest event I have organized in all my years, taking it to a new level,” Shameem stated, highlighting that there will be four title fights, including three IBO titles and one Fiji title. He expressed his aim to showcase that Fiji can produce world champions.
In other news, Australia’s Tonga Tongotongo has arrived to defend the IBO Asia Pacific cruiserweight title against Sebastian ‘The Sniper’ Singh. Tongotongo boasts a perfect record, winning all eight of his fights by knockout. He acknowledged the challenge posed by Singh but remained confident, stating, “What happens is what it is.”
Joining him on the flight is Lachlan O’Shea, who will face Winston Hill for the IBO Asia Pacific super welterweight title. O’Shea emphasized the honor of being a challenger and anticipates a tough and engaging match.
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