Boxing’s Path to Glory: The Power of Amateur Training

Veteran boxing trainer John Ramos emphasizes the pivotal role of amateur boxing in shaping successful professional careers in his newly released book, “Maker of Champions.” The book, which will officially launch on Saturday, pays tribute to Hector Hatch, a former Olympian and Fiji’s amateur welterweight champion, whom Ramos considers his mentor.

Ramos reflects on his early days in 1962 when he trained at the Suva Youth Centre under Hatch’s guidance, participating in weekly amateur boxing competitions at the PWD Gym in Walu Bay, Suva. The Fiji Amateur Boxing Association (FABA), established in 1953, and affiliated with the Association Internationale de Boxe Amateue, played a significant role in fostering boxing talent. In 1956, Fiji’s amateur team, including Hatch and Thomas Schuster, competed in the Olympic Games.

Hatch’s long-standing contributions to FABA from 1958 until his retirement in 1992 allowed many boxers to excel, including standout performances at the Commonwealth Games, such as the bronze medals won by Moses Evans and Holgar Johansen in 1962, and a gold medal by Tongan Sani Fine in 1982.

Ramos highlights that the amateur boxing system during Hatch’s administration consistently produced exceptional talent that made the leap to professional boxing. He praises Hatch’s leadership and dedication, remarking that Fiji needs a similar figure to revive amateur boxing and restore public confidence in the sport.

Ramos cites several successful boxers who transitioned from amateur to professional, including Ravuama Roko, Basdeo, and Wili Tarika, among others.

This tribute not only honors the legacy of a key figure in Fijian boxing history but also underscores the importance of strong mentorship in sports development, suggesting a hopeful future for amateur boxing if similar efforts are made.

Summary: John Ramos’ book highlights the critical role of amateur boxing in professional success, honoring mentor Hector Hatch’s contributions to the sport in Fiji, and calling for renewed efforts to boost amateur boxing and public support.