Boxer Sebastian Singh has urged Adi Narayan, chairman of the Boxing Commission of Fiji (BCF), to adopt an ethical position regarding the ongoing investigation into the death of Singh’s younger brother, Ubayd Haider, who suffered fatal brain injuries during a boxing match last October. Singh’s call for ethics comes after Narayan’s previous remarks, which suggested that Singh should take personal responsibility for his brother’s passing rather than blaming the BCF.

During a press conference in Suva, Singh expressed his disappointment in Narayan’s response and highlighted the government’s involvement through an investigation team, emphasizing that the BCF should allow this process to unfold without interference. Singh challenged Narayan’s authority on discussing ethics, stating, “He should be the last person talking about ethics and standards.”

In contrast, Narayan defended his comments, suggesting that Singh’s remarks were an attempt at emotional manipulation. He stated that Singh’s way of addressing the issue was inappropriate given his age and position.

As the investigation into Haider’s tragic death continues, Singh and other boxing community members, including veteran trainer Lepani Wilson, have emphasized the necessity for a respectful and mature dialogue regarding safety measures in boxing. Wilson previously urged the BCF to avoid public comments while the investigation is active, stressing the importance of honoring the grieving family and fostering collaborative efforts among stakeholders to enhance safety protocols for boxers.

The calls for accountability and ethical conduct highlight the urgent need for a thorough examination of safety standards in boxing. There is a collective hope within the boxing community that this tragedy will lead to improved measures that prioritize the health and safety of athletes, ensuring that incidents like this do not occur again in the future. The situation serves as a critical reminder of the shared responsibility in safeguarding the lives of those involved in the sport.