The inquiry commission assigned to investigate the tragic death of boxer Ubayd Haider is set to provide a crucial update today. This announcement was made by the commission’s chairman, Edwin Wainiqolo, who shared that the promoter, Freddy Chand, has yet to be interviewed regarding the events surrounding Haider’s fight.
Wainiqolo revealed that the commission has already spoken with several individuals closely linked to the boxing match, including all three local referees who worked the bout under the guidance of the International Boxing Organisation (IBO). Additionally, they have consulted with Haider’s family members as part of the investigation.
The chairman indicated that once the remaining interviews with both the promoter and the financier are completed, a formal release will be prepared. While the exact date for the final report remains uncertain, Wainiqolo promised to provide more clarity during today’s press conference, which will take place at the Ministry of Youth and Sports Nadi office at 10 am.
Ubayd Haider tragically collapsed following his ninth-round technical knockout loss to Sydney-based boxer Runqi Zhou during the IBO Asia Pacific super featherweight title fight on October 26. After being rushed to Zen’s Medical and subsequently transferred to Aspen Medical Fiji to undergo head surgery, Haider remained in a coma until he passed away on November 10. His final resting place is at Raralevu Cemetery in Tailevu, where he was buried on November 12. Haider’s untimely death marks a sorrowful moment, as he became the fourth Fijian boxer to die due to head trauma from a match.
As the inquiry progresses, there is hope that the findings could lead to improvements in safety and protocols within the sport, potentially preventing future tragedies and ensuring a safer environment for all boxing participants. This tragic incident serves as a poignant reminder of the risks associated with contact sports and the importance of prioritizing athlete welfare above all else.
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