Veteran boxing trainer John Ramos has emphasized the significance of amateur boxing as the foundation for professional boxers in his upcoming book, “Maker of Champions,” set to be launched on Saturday. Ramos pays tribute to Hector Hatch, a former Olympian and Fiji’s amateur welterweight boxing champion, whom he considers a mentor.
Ramos began his boxing journey in 1962 at the Suva Youth Centre—now part of the Young Men’s Christian Association—under Hatch’s guidance. Together, they competed in weekly amateur boxing matches held at the PWD Gym in Walu Bay, Suva.
The Fiji Amateur Boxing Association (FABA), established in 1953 and affiliated with the Association Internationale de Boxe Amateue, has played a crucial role in the development of boxing in Fiji. In 1956, Fiji’s amateur boxers participated in a competition in New Zealand, leading to Hatch and Thomas Schuster representing Fiji at the Olympic Games.
Hatch held various administrative roles within FABA from 1958 until his retirement in 1992. His leadership was pivotal in nurturing exceptional amateur boxing talent, including bronze medalists Moses Evans and Holgar Johansen at the 1962 Commonwealth Games in Perth, Australia. Additionally, Tongan Sani Fine went on to win gold for Fiji in the light heavyweight division at the 1982 Commonwealth Games in Brisbane, Australia.
According to Ramos, the era of amateur boxing under Hatch contributed significantly to the growth of professional ranks with numerous successful boxers emerging from this period. “Under Hatch’s guidance, I was able to cultivate and develop a pool of professional boxers,” Ramos wrote, describing Hatch as the greatest amateur boxing trainer and administrator.
Ramos urged that Fiji needs another figure like Hatch to revive amateur boxing and restore public trust in the sport. Notable amateur boxers who transitioned to professional success include Ravuama Roko, Basdeo, Alipate Korovou, Wili Tarika, Sakaraia Ve, Timoci Belo, Joe Nitiva, and Vereniki Raiwalui.
This article highlights the vital link between amateur and professional boxing, showcasing how strong foundational training can lead to success on the professional stage. As the boxing community looks towards the book’s launch, there is hope that Ramos’ insights will inspire the next generation of boxers and reinforce the importance of amateur boxing in Fiji.
In summary, Ramos’ book serves not only as a tribute to his mentor but also as a call to action for the revival of amateur boxing in Fiji, suggesting a brighter future for the sport.
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