A large crowd came together at the FMF Gymnasium in Suva to pay their respects to Ubayd Haider, who was a champion in both the super featherweight and lightweight boxing divisions in Fiji. The service saw the attendance of prominent figures, including Minister for Youth and Sports Jese Saukuru, Deputy Speaker of Parliament Lenora Qereqeretabua, and many members of the boxing community, alongside family and friends.
Haider, who was known previously as Nathan Singh, passed away in the early hours of Monday after spending over two weeks in the Intensive Care Unit at Lautoka Aspen Hospital. His tragic decline began after he collapsed en route to the changing room following a technical knockout loss in a bout against Runqi Zhou on October 26, during an International Boxing Association (IBO) Asia Pacific Super Featherweight title fight.
Mohammed Shameem, a director of South Pacific Boxing Promotions, expressed condolences from Canada, praising Haider’s kindness, strength, and contributions to the sport. He emphasized the deep impact Haider had on the boxing community and encouraged everyone to carry forward the lessons learned from him.
Haider’s older brother, Sebastian Singh, reflected on the outpouring of support their family received. He revealed that despite being unwell days before the fight, Haider displayed remarkable determination by competing until the ninth round. Sebastian believed that Haider should not have participated in the fight, feeling that there was outside pressure involved.
Tributes continued to pour in from across countries, including former sporting icon Sonny Bill Williams, who reached out from Sydney to express his sympathies. Mohammed Iliyas, who organized Williams’ visit to Fiji, noted Haider’s influence on the local boxing scene.
Minister Saukuru assured the Singh family that a thorough investigation will be conducted to uncover the circumstances surrounding Haider’s death. Veteran trainer John Ramos, now based in Canada, also sent condolences.
Ubayd Haider was laid to rest at the Raralevu Cemetery in Tailevu, leaving behind a legacy of inspiration and resilience in the world of boxing.
It’s poignant to see how the sporting community has united in grief over Haider’s passing, emphasizing the deep bonds and respect that exist within the sport. His dedication and spirit will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations of boxers.
In summary, Ubayd Haider’s passing has profoundly affected his community, bringing to light the importance of health and safety in sports. His life and career serve as a reminder of both the challenges faced by athletes and the incredible support networks that exist in sports culture.
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