Organizing three International Boxing Organisation (IBO) Asia Pacific title fights in Fiji is a significant financial undertaking. This initiative involves the logistics of bringing in top boxers from the region, their trainers, and IBO officials to ensure compliance with regulations, along with meeting requirements set by the Boxing Commission of Fiji. Mohammed Shameem, director of South Pacific Boxing Promotions, stated that the promotion would require an investment of over $100,000.
In an interview, the Vancouver-based businessman shared his longstanding passion for boxing, which originated in the 1960s when his father, Noor Mohammed, was a promoter. Shameem recalled watching his father’s bouts, including a pivotal fight at Ba’s Civic Theatre where Filimoni Naliva won the Fiji heavyweight title.
Now a prosperous businessman committed to giving back, he emphasized, “To me, Fiji is always home.” After returning to Fiji a few years ago, he played a crucial role in promoting Naliva’s son, Savenaca, to become Fiji’s light heavyweight champion.
Shameem mentioned that this upcoming event marks his 19th promotion. His organization has extended boxing prospects in Ba, Lautoka, and Labasa while also supporting various clubs and communities. Despite facing financial losses in most promotions, he finds fulfillment in positively impacting people’s lives.
Today, global sports icon Sonny Bill Williams (SBW) will arrive to serve as the event’s chief guest. Williams plans to engage with students, communities, and hospitals, discussing the dangers of drugs and the importance of avoidance.
“This is the biggest event I have organized over the years,” said Shameem. He highlighted that the event features three IBO titles and one Fiji title, totaling four title fights. He aims to showcase that Fiji can produce world champions.
In related news, Australia’s Tonga Tongotongo, known as a knockout specialist, has arrived to defend the IBO Asia Pacific cruiserweight title against local fighter Sebastian ‘The Sniper’ Singh. Tongotongo boasts a perfect record of eight knockout wins and anticipates a tough bout.
“I heard Sebastian is a tough opponent, so it will be a great fight,” said Tongotongo, who has ties to Niue.
Lachlan O’Shea, also arriving from Australia, will face Winston Hill for the IBO Asia Pacific super welterweight title. The former Queensland State champion expressed pride in challenging for the title and looks forward to a competitive match.
“We’ll have a good toe-to-toe battle in the ring. It will be tough, but I’m ready for it,” O’Shea stated.
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