The investigation regarding the tragic death of featherweight boxer Ubayd Haider is progressing as the team has completed interviews with all local individuals involved in the fight. Minister of Youth and Sports Jese Saukuru provided this update, stating that only six additional overseas individuals remain to be interviewed, with the investigation expected to conclude this week.
Among those yet to be interviewed are prominent figures in the boxing world, including Mohammed Shameem, director of South Pacific Boxing Promotion, promoter Fred Chand, and IBO Fight Commissioner Justin Kennedy. Haider suffered a devastating TKO loss to Runqi Zhou on October 26 during the IBO Asia Pacific super featherweight title fight. Following the match, he collapsed and was hospitalized but unfortunately succumbed to his injuries on November 10.
Haider’s death marks a somber point in Fiji’s boxing history, as he is the fourth boxer to die from injuries sustained in the ring, following Semi Galoa, Waisea Tavusa, and Filimoni Takayawa. In light of these events, concerns have been raised regarding the fight’s management and why it was not halted sooner.
Saukuru emphasized the importance of athlete welfare, noting that only the referee and the boxer’s corner man have the authority to stop a match. He assured the public that they would receive answers once the investigation concludes, highlighting the need for thorough consideration of all elements surrounding this unfortunate incident.
This investigation serves as a crucial moment for the sport in Fiji, and it is hoped that necessary reforms and safety measures will arise from it, ensuring the well-being of athletes in the future. With each step being taken towards understanding this tragedy, there is hope for improved regulations in boxing that prioritize fighter safety above all else.
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