Ubayd Haider has termed his upcoming IBO Oceania-Orient vacant featherweight title fight against China’s Runqi Zhou as the most significant challenge of his boxing career.
“My training for the fight commenced this week after a lengthy break, and I am determined to leave no stone unturned,” Haider stated.
He noted the primary hurdle in his preparation is the lack of sparring partners in Fiji. “There is not much involvement in boxing here, and I do not have many partners for sparring,” he added. Despite this, Haider plans to remain focused during his solo training sessions.
“Zhou is a formidable opponent, and I will need to match his abilities in the ring,” he mentioned. “He has a very high work rate; although I don’t believe he possesses exceptional power, he is skilled at boxing.”
Haider is set to face his Asian rival in the South Pacific boxing event at Prince Charles Park, Nadi, on October 26.
“I’ve been training alone due to my work commitments and the timing of the match,” he explained, noting that he practices at the Uptown boxing gym in Suva.
He encouraged fans to come and witness the thrilling match. “It is going to be a fierce battle; both of us will likely suffer injuries, and we will be fighting hard,” he remarked.
Haider acknowledged the strength of his opponent’s training camp, which includes world champions like the Maloney twins, Alex Winwood, and Bruno Tarimo. “They train together, so fighting him won’t be easy,” he admitted.
Despite facing skepticism from some critics who he believes will attend the match hoping to see him lose, Haider insists he is preparing thoroughly for a competitive fight. “Like every other fighter, I am aiming for victory,” he declared.
He believes his effective boxing footwork and height advantage will serve him well against Zhou.
“I am grateful to South Pacific Boxing promotions and Amarok Accessories for their support,” he concluded.