Plans are underway to establish a boxing gym in Labasa, aimed at revitalizing both amateur and professional boxing in Vanua Levu. This initiative was announced by Labasa Town Council special administrator, Samuela Ligairi, during an interview with SUNsports. Ligairi participated in the South Pacific Boxing Promotion program at Subrail Park, marking a return of professional boxing to Labasa after a nine-year hiatus.
Ligairi expressed that the council aims to rejuvenate the sport through the development of this new gym, which is planned to be located near the botanical garden at Lions Park. Construction is expected to begin soon, with potential funding assistance anticipated from the Ministry of Local Government, Ministry of Youth and Sports, and the Boxing Commission of Fiji. He emphasized that the facility will include a boxing ring for training and will be fully equipped.
Due to limited space at the current Nasekula Gym, Ligairi indicated that the new gym will offer a larger environment for sports enthusiasts. The Labasa Town Council and the Macuata Rugby Union have been in discussions to bring a more extensive gym facility to town. The MRU has previously contributed to the development of the gym at Nasekula, providing equipment donated by Silktails Rugby League Club. The council has also extended invitations to other NGOs for support in this venture.
Ligairi highlighted that the proposed gym development would not only benefit the council financially but also encourage more individuals to engage in boxing and explore their potential. He remarked that hosting significant sporting events, such as the Digicel Fiji FACT football tournament and the Fiji Secondary Schools rugby competition, has brought renewed energy to the community in Vanua Levu. He pointed out that such initiatives benefit the local economy as well, positively impacting hoteliers, taxi drivers, market vendors, and restaurants in the area.