Plans are underway to establish a boxing gym in Labasa aimed at reviving amateur and professional boxing in Vanua Levu. This initiative was shared by Labasa Town Council special administrator, Samuela Ligairi, during an interview with SUNsports last Saturday, following his attendance at the South Pacific Boxing Promotion program held at Subrail Park.
Professional boxing has returned to Labasa after a nine-year hiatus, and Ligairi expressed that the council is committed to reviving the sport through this new project. The proposed location for the gym is near the botanical garden at Lions Park. Ligairi indicated that initial construction will commence soon, with potential funding support from the Ministry of Local Government, the Ministry of Youth and Sports, and the Boxing Commission of Fiji.
The gym will feature a boxing ring for training and be fully equipped. Ligairi highlighted the need for this new facility due to space constraints at the Nasekula Gym, stating that a larger gym would accommodate more sporting enthusiasts. Collaborative discussions between the LTC and the Macuata Rugby Union (MRU) have been held to facilitate the gym’s development in town. The MRU previously helped establish the gym at Nasekula, providing equipment donated by the Silktails Rugby League Club. The LTC has also reached out to other Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) for additional support.
Ligairi noted that the proposed gym development could enhance the financial situation of the LTC and inspire individuals to participate in the sport and explore their potential. He emphasized that hosting significant sporting events, including the Digicel Fiji FACT football tournament, the Fiji Secondary Schools rugby competition (Vodafone Deans Trophy), and boxing promotions, has revitalized the community in Vanua Levu. Ligairi added that this approach benefits not just the council but also the local economy, providing opportunities for hoteliers, taxi operators, market vendors, and restaurants to share in the profits.