Plans are underway to establish a boxing gym in Labasa aimed at revitalizing both amateur and professional boxing in Vanua Levu. Labasa Town Council’s special administrator, Samuela Ligairi, shared this during an interview with SUNsports, highlighting his attendance at the South Pacific Boxing Promotion event held at Subrail Park.
This initiative marks the return of professional boxing to Labasa after a nine-year hiatus. Ligairi mentioned that the council is keen on rejuvenating the sport through this new development. The proposed site for the gym is located near the botanical garden at Lions Park.
Construction is set to begin soon, with potential financial backing 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 will be fully equipped to support training.
Ligairi noted that the current Nasekula Gym lacks sufficient space, prompting the council’s decision to pursue a larger gym that can accommodate more aspiring athletes. Collaborations are ongoing between the LTC and the Macuata Rugby Union to facilitate the development of a larger facility in Labasa.
The MRU previously assisted in upgrading the Nasekula Gym, provided with equipment from the Silktails Rugby League Club. The LTC is also engaging with various Non-Governmental Organizations for additional support in this venture.
Ligairi emphasized that the new gym would not only enhance the council’s financial standing but also inspire more individuals to participate in boxing and fulfill their potential. He pointed out that hosting significant sporting events, including the Digicel Fiji FACT football tournament, Fiji Secondary Schools rugby competition (Vodafone Deans Trophy), and boxing promotions, has positively impacted the community in Vanua Levu.
“This initiative takes a holistic approach, benefiting not just the council, but also the local economy, including hoteliers, taxi operators, market vendors, and restaurants who will share in the economic uplift,” he concluded.