Two local boxing champions have lost their titles due to non-compliance with the Boxing Commission of Fiji’s (BCF) mandatory defense timelines. BCF chairman Adi Narayan confirmed this decision during the organization’s first board meeting of the year.
Siliveni Nawai, a former super-middleweight champion, is the first to be stripped of his title. Narayan explained that Nawai has not only failed to defend his title but has also refused to return the championship belt. “A champion can retain his title after defending it three times; however, this individual has not followed the rules and is refusing to surrender the title. Therefore, we have decided to strip him and suspend him,” Narayan stated.
The second champion to lose his title is Shamal Ram Anuj, also known as Shamal Ramanuj, a former bantamweight and super-bantamweight champion. According to Narayan, Ramanuj has been residing outside the country, specifically in Australia or New Zealand, for over six months. “The rule is clear; he is now classified as a foreigner and is not a resident. Thus, the title is stripped and now deemed vacant,” he explained.
In light of these developments, the BCF is urging all champions to collaborate with promoters to ensure they promptly defend their titles to avoid similar consequences. Narayan emphasized that the BCF will not facilitate title defenses on behalf of champions. “To the current reigning champions, I request that you reach out to any promoters and secure your matches, as the boxing commission will act decisively moving forward,” he said.
This decisive action by the BCF highlights the importance of compliance within the sport and serves as a reminder to champions about their responsibilities in maintaining their titles. The commission is committed to keeping the sport dynamic and ensuring that champions remain actively engaged in defending their titles for the benefit of boxing in Fiji.
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