In an inspiring testament to resilience and determination, Binnu Singh, a former professional boxer from Fiji, reflects on his journey from humble beginnings to a notable boxing career. Now at the age of 53, Singh resides in Sigatoka, living the life of a full-time farmer, yet his legacy in boxing continues to resonate with local enthusiasts.
Singh’s boxing journey began in the mid-1990s, deeply rooted in his family’s passion for the sport. His father was a boxer, which influenced him to step into the ring after previously pursuing careers as a jockey and soccer player. Over 16 years, Singh participated in 25 professional bouts, securing four national titles, including the FBC Fiji featherweight and lightweight titles, the FBA junior lightweight title, and the South Pacific junior lightweight belt.
Among his remarkable achievements, Singh fondly recalls his intense rivalry with Junior Farzan Ali, with whom he fought five times, culminating in a memorable victory that showcased his hard work and dedication. Despite the challenging training conditions—often in the jungle with minimal resources—Singh emphasizes the foundational values of discipline and perseverance that boxing instilled in him.
His boxing journey saw its peak with a stint in Hobart, Tasmania, where he fought an experienced Australian boxer, Grant Brown, in a main event. Despite the loss, Singh valued the experience of going the distance in a closely contested match. After his final fight in 2005 against Saimoni Ratu, which ended in a decisive knockout victory, Singh’s career was cut short due to an injury.
Even after hanging up his gloves, Singh remained connected to the sport through his sons, who have taken up boxing themselves. He passionately trains and guides them, believing that the discipline learned through boxing is invaluable. Singh continues to underscore the importance of a rigorous training regimen, healthy eating, and mental focus as essential components for success in boxing.
His legacy is further enriched by a recent trend in Fiji’s boxing community, where coaches like Osea Nanovu advocate for the sport as a means of personal growth and positive change for youth. The combined efforts of past champions like Singh and present coaches reflect an ongoing evolution in Fiji’s boxing landscape, with potential for future generations to thrive.
As boxing experiences a resurgence in Fiji, events like the upcoming historic WBA titles being hosted in Suva highlight the impact of Singh’s and others’ contributions. Such developments could inspire a new wave of local talent to achieve success on international stages.
Singh’s journey serves as a beacon of hope, not only for aspiring boxers in Fiji but also as a reminder of the profound impact that sports can have on individual lives and communities. The pride he felt representing Fiji in the ring remains a testament that, regardless of the path taken, the values instilled through dedication and hard work resonate far beyond the boxing arena.
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