The investigation into the tragic death of featherweight boxer Ubayd Haider is moving forward, as confirmed by Minister of Youth and Sports Jese Saukuru. The team has completed interviews with all local individuals involved in the fight, and only six overseas individuals remain to be questioned. Saukuru noted that the investigation should conclude this week, pending the compilation of both the interviews and the report’s findings, which will lead to a decision.
The individuals yet to be interviewed include key figures such as South Pacific Boxing Promotion director Mohammed Shameem, promoter Fred Chand, and IBO Fight Commissioner Justin Kennedy, among others.
Haider collapsed following a ninth-round TKO loss to Sydney’s Runqi Zhou during the IBO Asia Pacific super featherweight title fight held at Nadi’s Prince Charles Park on October 26. After being admitted to Zen’s Medical and later transferred to Aspen Hospital in Lautoka for head surgery, he never regained consciousness and sadly passed away on November 10. He was laid to rest on November 12 at the Raralevu Cemetery in Tailevu.
This tragedy marks the fourth case of a Fiji boxer losing their life due to head injuries sustained in the ring, following similar instances in previous decades. In light of this, Saukuru emphasized the importance of athlete welfare and acknowledged the necessity for answers after the investigation concludes, especially regarding concerns about why the fight wasn’t stopped sooner.
The Boxing Commission of Fiji chairman, Adi Narayan, clarified that only the referee and the fighter’s corner are authorized to halt a match. Saukuru indicated that while the investigation could reveal possible criminal offenses, it will ultimately be left to the Board for Enquiry to deliver their recommendations.
As the investigation wraps up, many hope that its findings will prompt essential changes in boxing regulations to safeguard the health and wellbeing of fighters. The ongoing scrutiny highlights the significance of monitoring athlete welfare and ensuring strict adherence to safety measures in combat sports.
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