The investigation into the tragic death of featherweight boxer Ubayd Haider has progressed with interviews of local individuals associated with the fight now complete. Minister of Youth and Sports, Jese Saukuru, confirmed that only six overseas individuals remain to be interviewed, and the investigation is expected to conclude this week.
The overseas interviewees include notable figures such as South Pacific Boxing Promotion director Mohammed Shameem, promoter Fred Chand, IBO Fight Commissioner Justin Kennedy, and referee Ignatuis Missailidis, among others. Haider, who suffered a ninth-round TKO loss to Sydney-based boxer Runqi Zhou for the IBO Asia Pacific super featherweight title, collapsed following the match on October 26. He was immediately transferred to medical facilities, where he underwent surgery due to a head injury but sadly passed away on November 10. His burial took place on November 12 at Raralevu Cemetery in Tailevu.
This incident marks a somber moment in Fijian boxing history, as Haider is the fourth boxer to die from injuries sustained in the ring. Previous fatalities include heavyweight Semi Galoa in 1953, welterweight Waisea Tavusa in 1975, and middleweight Filimoni Takayawa in 1990. Minister Saukuru emphasized the importance of athlete welfare amidst concerns about why the fight wasn’t stopped earlier. The Boxing Commission of Fiji chairman noted that only the referee and the corner man can halt the fight.
Saukuru stated that the public can expect clarity regarding the investigation’s findings soon, while cautioning that various factors need to be considered during its finalization. He made it clear that the investigation has the authority to uncover potential criminal offenses, and citizens should trust in the effectiveness of the Board for Inquiry.
The focus on athlete safety is a hopeful sign that such tragedies may prompt meaningful changes in boxing regulations, potentially preventing similar incidents in the future. The boxing community and regulators are taking this matter seriously, which could lead to improvements in how fighters are protected in the ring.
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