In Fiji, the aspiration to become a professional boxer often starts at the amateur level; however, this pathway poses significant challenges that can stifle talent and restrict opportunities. Osea Nanovu, a local boxing coach, has raised concerns regarding the restrictive policies of the Fiji Amateur Boxing Association (FABA), arguing that they hinder boxers from realizing their full potential by preventing their participation in professional exhibitions.
“Not every amateur boxer will make it to Team Fiji or become an Olympian,” Nanovu pointed out, emphasizing that amateur boxing should serve as a critical foundation for developing skills essential for a successful professional career. Current policies, which prohibit participation in professional events, hold back many athletes from progressing in their careers and supporting their families.
While achievements in amateur boxing, such as winning medals, are commendable, Nanovu stresses that these accolades do not provide for the basic needs of boxers and their families. “Winning medals is great, but medals don’t put food on the table,” he stated, underlining the need for boxers to establish sustainable careers through their passion.
Nanovu urges FABA to adopt a more flexible approach that acknowledges the need for boxers, especially as they age, to transition into the professional sphere rather than remaining in the amateur realm indefinitely. He raises concerns about whether FABA has a solid plan for nurturing future boxing talent or if the organization is primarily focused on maintaining control over the sport.
“If FABA is worried about losing talent, they can always train new boxers,” he remarked. “But by restricting opportunities for current boxers, they risk pushing fighters to skip the amateur level altogether.” This reality highlights why many view the recent reinstatement of the International Boxing Association (IBA) in Fiji as an encouraging development. The IBA’s framework allows boxers to participate in both amateur and professional events, facilitating better career management.
For many aspiring boxers in Fiji, boxing is not only a passion but also a potential career path. As Nanovu poignantly expresses, “Boxers love to box, but they also need to put food on the table for their families.” It is imperative for governing bodies in Fiji to collaborate in creating a supportive environment that nurtures talent while respecting the realities of life, contributing positively to the professional future of boxing.
Without a revised approach, many promising fighters might be compelled to seek opportunities outside of Fiji, potentially undermining the local boxing landscape and thwarting the dreams of its athletes. Meanwhile, inquiries have been submitted to FABA, with a response anticipated in the following days.
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