Veteran trainer Lepani Wilson has urged the Boxing Commission of Fiji (BCF) to refrain from making public comments while the investigation into Ubayd Haider’s tragic death is ongoing. His comments follow a press conference held by BCF chairman Adi Narayan and board member Eroni Loganimoce, where they discussed the suspension of South Pacific Boxing Promotions (SPBP)’s license due to promoter Fred Chand’s social media statements.
Wilson expressed his concern for the ongoing investigation, emphasizing the necessity to respect the grieving family. “This is a serious issue where life matters,” he stated. He recalled facing a similar situation in the 1990s following the death of boxer Filimoni Takayawa during his presidency of the Professional Boxing Wrestling Association (PBWA). Wilson highlighted the importance of collaboration among all stakeholders, including the boxing body, promoters, and legal representatives, to implement safety measures and prevent such tragedies in the future.
From his experience, he noted that accountability should not fall solely on one individual, emphasizing that shared responsibilities exist among those involved in ensuring the safety of boxers. He called for the enforcement of existing protocols and the introduction of additional safety precautions to safeguard the lives of athletes.
In light of the tragic circumstances, Wilson’s remarks encourage a unified approach to enhance safety in boxing, reminding stakeholders that every effort counts in protecting athletes. This situation presents an opportunity for the boxing community to come together, learn from past incidents, and foster a culture of safety and respect for all involved.
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