Three International Boxing Organisation (IBO) Asia Pacific titles are set to be contested at an event organized by South Pacific Boxing Promotions next month. Adi Narayan, Chairman of the Boxing Commission of Fiji (BCF), confirmed the program, which has received endorsement from IBO Australia, during its launch yesterday.
Scheduled for October 26 at Prince Charles Park in Nadi, the event will not only feature local title matches but also include a women’s bout. Notably, it will mark the first occasion where two siblings will compete for international titles. Sebastian Singh will face “King” Tonga Tongotongo for the IBO Asia Pacific cruiserweight title, while his younger brother Ubayd Haider will take on China’s Runqi Zhou for the IBO Asia Pacific featherweight title. Additionally, Winston Hill and Lachlan O’Shea will contest the super welterweight title.
“This is a unique opportunity as it’s hard to recall if we’ve seen this happen in the last three years,” Narayan said, emphasizing the chance for local boxers to showcase their talents on an international stage.
Jonathan Pedro Hill, Winston’s brother, is set to challenge Siliveni Nawai for the Fijian super middleweight title, while Jese Ravudi will compete against Vanuatu’s Roy Ser in another local match.
Narayan expressed gratitude towards promoter Freddy Chand and director Mohammed Shameem for making the event possible, with Chand noting that these fights will provide fresh opportunities for local boxers, including women. The outcome of the women’s bout between Amo Wai and Maureen Chand will determine who will earn a fight in England.
Chand highlighted that if Winston Hill secures a victory, he will be closer to a world title shot, as the IBO has granted him a chance to compete for one of their three belts.
To ensure safety during the event, Chand assured fans that security will be a priority, particularly following a recent incident at Lawaqa Park. He urged boxing clubs and fighters to have their trainers registered with BCF, affirming that only a limited number of people will be allowed in the ring.
“Only four individuals will be permitted: one boxer, two trainers, plus a cornerman if they are licensed with BCF,” he explained. “If a boxer does not have registered trainers, they will enter with someone who is registered. It’s crucial to have your team registered.”
Chand also confirmed that there will be 30 private security personnel and 25 police officers on site to ensure a secure environment. Additionally, an international IBO referee will be present to assist local referees and officials.