Plans are underway to establish a boxing gym in Labasa to revitalize both amateur and professional boxing in Vanua Levu. Labasa Town Council’s special administrator, Samuela Ligairi, shared details of this initiative during an interview with SUNsports on Saturday.
Ligairi’s comments followed his attendance at the South Pacific Boxing Promotion event held at Subrail Park, marking the return of professional boxing to Labasa after a nine-year hiatus. He emphasized that the council aims to promote the sport through this new project, which will be located near the botanical garden at Lions Park.
Construction is expected to commence soon, as Ligairi anticipates support from the Ministry of Local Government, the Ministry of Youth and Sports, and the Boxing Commission of Fiji. The facility will feature a boxing ring and a fully equipped gym.
Ligairi mentioned that the existing Nasekula Gym has limited space, making the new gym essential for accommodating more athletes and enthusiasts. The Labasa Town Council is collaborating with the Macuata Rugby Union to develop a larger training facility in town. The MRU, which previously assisted in establishing the gym at Nasekula with equipment donated by the Silktails Rugby League Club, continues to be a key partner in this initiative. The council is also seeking support from other non-governmental organizations.
Ligairi believes that the new gym will enhance the council’s finances while encouraging more individuals to participate in boxing and discover their potential. He noted that hosting significant sporting events, such as the Digicel Fiji FACT football tournament and the Vodafone Deans Trophy for secondary schools rugby, has revitalized the community in Vanua Levu.
“This initiative is not just for the council’s gain; it also benefits the local economy, including hoteliers, taxi operators, market vendors, and restaurants,” he added.