Plans are underway to establish a boxing gym in Labasa aimed at revitalizing amateur and professional boxing in Vanua Levu. This information was shared by Labasa Town Council special administrator, Samuela Ligairi, during an interview with SUNsports last Saturday. Ligairi was present at the South Pacific Boxing Promotion program held at Subrail Park, marking the return of professional boxing to Labasa after a nine-year hiatus.
He indicated that the Labasa Town Council intends to advance the sport by initiating this project. The proposed location for the gym is near the botanical garden at Lions Park. Ligairi mentioned that construction would commence soon, with potential financial backing from the Ministry of Local Government, Ministry of Youth and Sports, and the Boxing Commission of Fiji.
The gym will feature a boxing ring for training along with full gym equipment. Ligairi noted that due to space limitations at the Nasekula Gym, the LTC seeks to establish a larger facility that will accommodate more sports enthusiasts.
In collaboration with the Macuata Rugby Union, discussions are ongoing to develop a larger gym in town. The MRU previously assisted in creating the gym at Nasekula, with equipment provided by the Silktails Rugby League Club. The LTC is also reaching out to various Non-Governmental Organizations to support this initiative.
Ligairi expressed that the development would enhance LTC’s financial standing and inspire individuals to engage in the sport and achieve their potential. He highlighted that hosting significant sporting events, such as the Digicel Fiji FACT football tournament, the Fiji Secondary Schools rugby competition, and boxing promotions, has revitalized the community in Vanua Levu.
“It is a holistic approach, benefiting not only the council but also the local economy, allowing hoteliers, taxi operators, market vendors, and restaurants to share in the profits,” he added.