The Commission of Inquiry (COI) is seeking an extension from the Minister for Youth and Sports, Jese Saukuru, to continue its investigation into the tragic death of featherweight boxer Ubayd Haider. COI chairman Edwin Wainiqolo announced yesterday that they require an additional two weeks to conclude their investigations, noting that they have yet to interview South Pacific Boxing Promotions (SPBP) promoter Fred Chand and director Mohammed Shameem.
Shameem was initially slated for an interview at 4 PM yesterday, but that meeting was postponed due to COI members attending a brief gathering in Suva. Wainiqolo indicated that the interview with Shameem would now take place on Monday via Zoom, while he also pointed out the logistical challenges the panel faces, with members situated in different regions.
In an effort to move forward, the COI plans to formally reach out to Chand’s legal team, demanding a response within a week. If they do not receive a reply, the investigation will proceed without his input.
Speaking from Vancouver, Canada, Shameem expressed his readiness for yesterday’s interview, emphasizing that the rescheduling was out of his control. He also defended his reputation against claims from Boxing Commission of Fiji (BCF) chairman Adi Narayan, asserting his decades of experience in the sport and his knowledge of the boxing rules.
Tragically, Ubayd Haider collapsed following his ninth-round bout against Sydney-based boxer Runqi Zhou during a title fight at Prince Charles Park in Nadi on October 26. He was urgently transported to Zen’s Medical before being transferred to Aspen Hospital in Lautoka, where he underwent surgery due to a coma. Unfortunately, Haider passed away on November 10.
As the investigation unfolds, it is essential to give the involved parties the opportunity to share their perspectives. This inquiry aims to shed light on the circumstances surrounding Haider’s untimely passing, and its outcomes may lead to improved safety measures in boxing. The commitment to thoroughness and transparency in these proceedings lays the groundwork for potential positive change in the sport.
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