James Singh and Semi Dauloloma have been suspended from participating in any Boxing Commission of Fiji (BCF) sanctioned events for a period of four months. BCF chairman Adi Narayan announced this decision following a meeting with board members and Minister of Youth and Sports, Jese Saukuru.
The heavyweight bout between Singh and Dauloloma was the main event over the weekend but ended in chaos at Lawaqa Park in Sigatoka, prompting Narayan to declare the fight a no contest due to misconduct from both teams.
Narayan emphasized the importance of acting justly in line with sports regulations as advised by the Sports Minister, stating that such behavior is unacceptable. He described the incident as disgraceful and stressed that it would not be tolerated.
“The licenses of both boxers will be suspended for the next four months. They are prohibited from participating in any BCF licensed events during this time,” Narayan stated. He noted that both fighters committed fouls and should face consequences.
He pointed out that Singh initiated the conflict and Dauloloma contributed to its escalation. Narayan explained that if Dauloloma had taken the five-minute break to recover, the referee would have allowed the fight to continue, but instead opted for a different course of action, leading to their penalties.
Citing the rule that justified his no contest ruling, Narayan indicated that such a determination is made when both competitors fail to perform their best by frequently disregarding the rules. He condemned their actions for failing to serve as role models for aspiring boxers.
Despite the suspension, Singh retains his heavyweight title. “Singh is still the champion because the contest was not completed due to the foul,” Narayan clarified. He warned Singh that any repeat of such behavior could lead to the loss of his title when he returns in January.
Additionally, the individual who intervened during the incident, identified as Dauloloma’s father, has received a lifetime ban from BCF licensed promotions. The BCF will also submit a formal report to the Sigatoka Police to pursue assault charges against him.