Bringing three International Boxing Organisation (IBO) Asia Pacific titles to Fiji comes with a hefty price tag. The process involves transporting top boxers from the region, their trainers, and IBO officials to ensure compliance with regulations, alongside meeting the Boxing Commission of Fiji’s requirements. South Pacific Boxing Promotions director Mohammed Shameem revealed that he has invested over $100,000 to organize this promotion.
Shameem, a businessman based in Vancouver, shared his passion for boxing, rooted in his childhood experiences watching his late father, Noor Mohammed, promote boxing events. He recalled his first boxing match at Ba’s Civic Theatre when he was six years old, where Filimoni Naliva defeated Marika Naivalu for the Fiji heavyweight title.
Now a successful entrepreneur, Shameem is committed to giving back to communities. He considers Fiji his home and has previously helped promote Naliva’s son, Savenaca, into Fiji’s light heavyweight champion. With 18 promotions under his belt, the upcoming event marks his 19th effort to support boxing in Fiji, with previous events held in Ba, Lautoka, and Labasa, where he has assisted clubs and boxers.
Despite facing losses in many of his events, Shameem finds fulfillment in reaching out and making a difference in people’s lives. The event will feature global sports icon Sonny Bill Williams, who will be the chief guest, visiting schools and communities to educate young people about the dangers of drugs.
The upcoming card will feature three IBO titles and one Fijian title, totaling four title fights, showcasing local talent and aiming to produce world champions.
On another note, Australia’s knockout king, Tonga Tongotongo, has arrived to defend his IBO Asia Pacific cruiserweight title against local fighter Sebastian ‘The Sniper’ Singh. Tongotongo, with an undefeated record of eight knockout wins, acknowledges Singh’s toughness and anticipates a good fight.
Joining him on the same flight is Australia’s Lachlan O’Shea, who is set to challenge Winston Hill for the IBO Asia Pacific super welterweight title. O’Shea expressed his honor in coming as a challenger and is excited for a tough and competitive match.
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