The World Boxing Association (WBA) Oceania super bantamweight title fight will take place on July 19 at Suva’s Vodafone Arena, featuring Junior Binnu Singh and Australia’s Runqi Zhou as the main event. This historic match will be the first WBA title fight to be held in Fiji, a milestone that has ignited excitement in the local boxing community, as confirmed by promoter Nahroon Buksh of King Boxing Promotion.
In addition to the main bout, the event will also showcase the Fiji heavyweight title fight between current champion James “The Beast” Singh and Semi “Equaliser” Dauloloma, which is set to be their fourth meeting in the ring. The matchup has been contentious, with both boxers sharing victories in their previous encounters, while their last face-off ended in a no contest. Despite any previous disputes, both fighters are motivated and ready to compete.
Further adding to the event’s appeal, a super featherweight title fight under the NZ Professional Boxing Commission will feature Mikaele Ravolaca against hard-hitting Junior Raka from Papua New Guinea.
Singh, at just 24 years old, holds a strong record, having lost only one of his 12 professional fights. His opponent, Zhou, has a record of nine wins, three losses, and one draw. Significantly, Singh is driven by the personal motivation to honor his late friend and fellow boxer, Ubayd Haider, who tragically passed away after facing Zhou in October 2024. Singh has expressed his commitment to proving that Fijian boxers can compete at high levels and is preparing rigorously for the bout.
The upcoming event not only represents personal ambitions for the fighters involved but is also seen as a pivotal moment for boxing in Fiji, sparking hope for a future where local talents gain greater recognition and opportunities. Promoter Buksh emphasized his vision to foster the sport’s growth in Fiji, aiming for a successful event that can elevate the region as a boxing hub. As excitement builds around the July 19 showdown, there is optimism that this landmark occasion will inspire future generations of boxers in Fiji.
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