Bringing three International Boxing Organisation (IBO) Asia Pacific titles to compete in Fiji is a significant financial undertaking. This effort includes the logistics of transporting elite boxers from the region, along with their trainers and IBO officials, to ensure adherence to all regulations. Additionally, meeting the standards set by the Boxing Commission of Fiji adds to the cost.
South Pacific Boxing Promotions director Mohammed Shameem revealed that the promotion has required an investment exceeding $100,000. Speaking to SUNsports, Shameem, who is based in Vancouver, shared that his passion for boxing started in the 1960s, influenced by his late father, Noor Mohammed, who was a promoter.
“I remember watching boxing for the first time at Ba’s Civic Theatre, where Filimoni Naliva claimed the Fiji heavyweight title,” he recalled. Despite his success in business, Shameem remains dedicated to supporting communities. “I always consider Fiji home,” he stated, mentioning that he returned a few years ago to help promote Naliva’s son, Savenaca, to win the Fiji light heavyweight championship.
Shameem noted that the upcoming event will mark his 19th promotion. His organization has contributed significantly to boxing in Ba, Lautoka, and Labasa, providing support to clubs and boxers. Despite facing losses in many of his promotions, he finds fulfillment in positively impacting people’s lives.
In an exciting development, sports legend Sonny Bill Williams will arrive in Fiji today as the chief guest for the event. Williams plans to engage with schools, communities, and hospitals to educate young people about the dangers of drugs.
“This is the most significant event I’ve organized over the years. We are raising the bar by featuring three IBO titles alongside one Fiji title for a total of four title fights,” Shameem added. His goal is to help Fijian boxers prove their potential for world championship titles.
Meanwhile, Australia’s Tonga Tongotongo, known for his knockout prowess, has arrived in Fiji to defend his IBO Asia Pacific cruiserweight title against local fighter Sebastian ‘The Sniper’ Singh. Tongotongo holds an impressive record of eight knockout victories and anticipates a challenging fight. “I’ve heard Sebastian is tough, so it should be a good match,” he commented.
Also arriving on the same flight is Australian Lachlan O’Shea, who will challenge Winston Hill for the IBO Asia Pacific super welterweight title. O’Shea expressed his excitement about being a challenger and looks forward to a competitive match. “We will have a good toe-to-toe in the middle of the ring. It will be tough, but I’m ready for it,” he said.
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