Two heavyweight boxers in Fiji have had their boxing licenses suspended for four months, as announced by the Boxing Commission of Fiji. The decision came after an incident during a match on Saturday at Lawaqa Park in Sigatoka, where Fiji heavyweight champion James ‘The Beast’ Singh faced Semi Dauloloma.
Minister of Youth and Sports Jese Saukuru expressed his disappointment regarding the incident and called for swift action following the fight. BCF chairman Adi Narayan described the event as a disgrace to the sport.
Narayan stated at a press conference that he is deeply disturbed by the occurrence and acknowledged the Minister’s presence at the meeting despite his busy parliamentary schedule. He emphasized that the Ministry will not tolerate such behavior in professional boxing and expected champion boxers to exemplify sportsmanship.
Singh currently holds the heavyweight title in Fiji, while Dauloloma has the Leweni Waqa Memorial heavyweight belt. The suspension was discussed in consultation with the Minister of Sports, and both boxers will lose their licenses for four months. Narayan assured that they will have a fresh start in 2025, highlighting that the suspension serves as a warning to all boxers.
During the match, tensions escalated when Singh struck Dauloloma while they were on the ground following a fall. This bout was their third encounter, and it saw Singh initially knocked down by Dauloloma in the first round. As they exchanged punches, both fell to the canvas, with Singh hitting Dauloloma while the referee attempted to separate them. The situation deteriorated, resulting in a no-contest decision as officials intervened to break up the chaos.
The heavyweight title will remain with Singh, confirming his status as the champion.