Fiji boxing chief warns fighters to up their game after three overseas losses

Adi Narayan, the chairman of the Boxing Commission of Fiji, expressed his disappointment over the losses of three prominent Fijian boxers during a recent competition. He is urging local athletes to elevate their performance levels in preparation for international contests.

“I am disappointed, obviously, because the results were not favourable,” Narayan stated. He emphasized the need for boxers to be fit, strong, and well-prepared if they aspire to compete overseas.

The losses were particularly notable for three fighters: Winston Hill, Mikaele Ravalacava, and James Singh, who each faced tough overseas opponents. Ravalacava, Fiji’s lightweight champion, lost to Ethiopia’s Zewdu Haymanot Desalegn by unanimous points decision at the International Boxing Association. Despite the defeat, Narayan commended Ravalacava as the first Fijian boxer to participate in this championship, noting his significant achievements in both amateur and professional boxing.

Winston Hill, the super welterweight champion, experienced his first professional loss to IBF Pan Pacific champion Ben Mahoney, who knocked him down twice in the opening round and finished the fight with a powerful body punch in the sixth round. Narayan raised concerns about how the match was officiated, claiming that some of the punches thrown at Hill should have been flagged as fouls by the referee.

James Singh, Fiji’s heavyweight boxer, faced a tough loss as he was knocked out by John Figota, who took the match despite not being in optimal condition. “He himself confessed that fitness was his problem,” Narayan remarked, expressing frustration that Singh agreed to fight without adequate preparation.

Narayan called on trainers and managers to ensure their fighters are well-prepared and to select opponents that offer a balanced challenge, enhancing the likelihood of victory for Fijian boxers in the international arena.

The sentiment of accountability and preparation highlights the strong desire within Fiji’s boxing community for progress and success on larger platforms. While this weekend’s results were disappointing, they serve as a crucial reminder of the importance of readiness and strategy in the pursuit of excellence in sports.