Hosting three International Boxing Organisation (IBO) Asia Pacific title fights is a costly venture, as it requires bringing in top boxers from the region, their trainers, and IBO officials to ensure compliance with regulations. Additionally, all requirements from the Boxing Commission of Fiji must be met.
Mohammed Shameem, director of South Pacific Boxing Promotions, revealed that he is investing over $100,000 to organize the event. In an interview, the Vancouver-based businessman shared that his passion for boxing dates back to the 1960s, inspired by his father, Noor Mohammed, who was a promoter.
Shameem recalls watching his first boxing match at Ba’s Civic Theatre when he was just six years old, where Filimoni Naliva triumphed over Marika Naivalu for the Fiji heavyweight title. Now a successful entrepreneur, he remains committed to supporting local communities.
“Fiji is always home for me,” he stated. “I returned a few years ago to help promote Naliva’s son, Savenaca, who became Fiji’s light heavyweight champion.” This upcoming event will mark Shameem’s 19th promotion, having already brought boxing to Ba, Lautoka, and Labasa while aiding local clubs and boxers.
Despite incurring losses in many of his promotions, he finds fulfillment in connecting with people and making a positive impact in their lives. Legendary athlete Sonny Bill Williams (SBW) arrives today as the chief guest for the event. During his visit, Williams plans to engage with schools, communities, and hospitals, addressing youth about the dangers of drugs.
“This is the biggest event I have organized in years,” Shameem remarked. “We have three IBO titles and one Fiji title on the line, making for a total of four title fights. I aim to show that Fiji can produce world champions.”
In other news, Tonga Tongotongo, a knockout specialist from Australia, has landed in Fiji to defend his IBO Asia Pacific cruiserweight title against local fighter Sebastian ‘The Sniper’ Singh. Tongotongo boasts an impressive record, having won all of his eight fights by knockout. When asked about his opponent, he acknowledged Singh’s toughness but expressed confidence in facing him.
Also arriving on the same flight is Lachlan O’Shea from Australia, who will challenge Winston Hill for the IBO Asia Pacific super welterweight title. O’Shea, a former Queensland State champion, described his upcoming match as a significant honor and anticipates a challenging bout. “I’m a warrior myself,” he stated, looking forward to an exciting fight.
Leave a comment