Excitement is building as the Fiji Amateur Boxing Association prepares to kick off its inaugural domestic competition for 2026 this Saturday at the Stan Brown Boxing Gym in Walu Bay, Suva. With more than 20 boxers expected to participate, the tournament is generating significant buzz within the local boxing community.
Head coach Cam Todd has confirmed that this first tournament will serve as a regular domestic event, scheduled for February 14. He underscored the importance of the year ahead, which involves scouting potential boxers to form a squad for the Pacific Games in Tahiti. This event is crucial as it will serve as a qualifying opportunity for the 2028 Olympics.
“It will be a very busy year for Fiji Amateur Boxing. This year we will be looking at prospective boxers forming a squad for the Pacific Games next year in Tahiti, which will be a qualifying event for the 2028 Olympics,” Todd stated. He expressed optimism about a robust turnout, citing heightened interest from several clubs, including some that did not participate in last year’s competition, a sign of growth in both participation and competition in the sport.
“I think there is going to be a good turnout; we have interest from clubs already, including a couple of clubs that weren’t competing last year, which is great. Most of the local clubs have already started, and they are training really well, particularly those selected for national squads representing Fiji at international events.”
Todd is eager to see fresh talent and new boxers who demonstrate a genuine passion for the sport. The upcoming tournament marks a vital moment for officials to make adjustments and for boxers to compete for spots on the national team, especially with the Commonwealth Games approaching.
“I want to see some of my top returning boxers, as we need to finalize our team for the Commonwealth Games, so I’m looking forward to that, while also observing the new boxers emerging,” he added.
Todd called upon fans of Fiji Amateur Boxing to come out and support the athletes, emphasizing that community backing is essential for fostering a successful year for the boxers and the sport overall. The team is optimistic about its prospects for 2026 and aims to achieve notable success and leave a lasting impression in the boxing world.
Leave a comment