Three International Boxing Organisation (IBO) Asia Pacific titles are set to be fought for at the South Pacific Boxing Promotions event next month. Adi Narayan, chairman of the Boxing Commission of Fiji, confirmed at the event’s launch that the program has received endorsement from IBO Australia.
Slated for October 26 at Prince Charles Park in Nadi, the card will not only include the international title bouts but also feature a local title fight and various local matches, including a women’s bout.
Notably, it will mark the first time that siblings will compete for international titles, as Sebastian Singh faces “King” Tonga Tongotongo for the IBO Asia Pacific cruiserweight title. Meanwhile, his younger brother Ubayd Haider will go up against China’s Runqi Zhou for the IBO Asia Pacific featherweight title. The third international match will involve Winston Hill and Lachlan O’Shea competing for the super welterweight title.
“This is a unique occasion, and I can’t recall a similar event happening in the last three years,” Narayan commented. “This is an excellent opportunity for our boxers to showcase their talents on an international stage.”
Additionally, Hill’s brother Jonathan Pedro Hill will challenge Siliveni Nawai for the Fijian super middleweight title. Another match will see Jese Ravudi take on Vanuatu’s Roy Ser.
Narayan expressed gratitude to promoter Freddy Chand and director Mohammed Shameem for their efforts in organizing this event, which Chand believes will create new opportunities for local boxers, including women. The outcome of the women’s match between Amo Wai and Maureen Chand will determine who earns a fight opportunity in England.
Chand stated that if Winston Hill secures a victory, he will be in line for a world title shot granted by the IBO.
In preparation for the event, Chand assured boxing fans that security measures will be stringent to prevent incidents similar to last month’s at Lawaqa Park. He encouraged boxing clubs and their trainers to ensure their registration with the Boxing Commission of Fiji.
“Only four people will be allowed in the ring; one boxer, two trainers, and a cutman if he holds a license from the BCF,” he clarified. “If a boxer doesn’t have registered trainers, they’ll be matched with someone who is registered, so it’s crucial to have your team registered.”
Chand also confirmed that there would be a substantial security presence at the event, with 30 private security personnel and 25 police officers on-site. Furthermore, an international IBO referee will assist local referees and officials during the bouts.