Boxing Trainer Urges Commission to Exercise Caution Amid Ongoing Investigation

Veteran trainer Lepani Wilson has urged the Boxing Commission of Fiji (BCF) to refrain from making public statements while the investigation into Ubayd Haider’s tragic death is ongoing. Wilson’s remarks followed a press conference on Friday, where BCF chairman Adi Narayan and board member Eroni Loganimoce discussed the suspension of the South Pacific Boxing Promotions (SPBP) license, which they attributed to promoter Fred Chand’s comments on social media.

“Given that there is an investigation underway, it is crucial that we show respect,” Wilson stated. He emphasized the gravity of the situation, noting that it involves a family mourning the loss of a loved one. Drawing from his own experience in the 1990s, when he dealt with the death of boxer Filimoni Takayawa as the president of the Professional Boxing Wrestling Association (PBWA), Wilson illustrated the importance of collaboration and maturity when addressing such serious matters.

During that time, Wilson recounted efforts to work alongside boxing bodies, promoters, and legal representatives to implement safety measures designed to protect boxers. He criticized the tendency to assign blame, stressing that the focus should be on collective responsibility rather than targeting a single individual. “Everyone shares the blame because processes were not adhered to by those responsible,” he remarked.

Wilson concluded by noting the importance of enforcing safety regulations to prevent similar tragedies in the future, underscoring that the preservation of life should remain the top priority.

This call for respect and unity in the face of a tragedy serves as a reminder of the need for thoughtful dialogue and action in sports safety, promoting a positive path forward that prioritizes the well-being of all involved.

In summary, Lepani Wilson advocates for restraint from the Boxing Commission of Fiji amid ongoing investigations into the death of Ubayd Haider, sharing insights from his own experiences to highlight the need for responsibility and safety measures in boxing.