Three International Boxing Organisation (IBO) Asia Pacific titles will be up for grabs at the South Pacific Boxing Promotions next month. Adi Narayan, chairman of the Boxing Commission of Fiji (BCF), announced at the launch of the event that the program has received approval from IBO Australia.
The boxing event is scheduled for October 26 at Prince Charles Park in Nadi. It will not only feature international title fights but also a local title match along with several local bouts, including a women’s fight.
A notable aspect of the event is that it will see a pair of siblings 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 go up against China’s Runqi Zhou for the IBO Asia Pacific featherweight title. Additionally, Winston Hill will fight Lachlan O’Shea for the super welterweight title.
“This is a unique occasion; I can’t recall a similar event happening in the last three years,” Narayan stated. “This is a significant opportunity for our boxers to showcase their talents on the international stage.”
In another match, Hill’s brother Jonathan Pedro Hill will challenge Siliveni Nawai for the Fijian super middleweight title, while Jese Ravudi will face Vanuatu’s Roy Ser.
Narayan expressed his gratitude to promoter Freddy Chand and director Mohammed Shameem for their efforts in making this event possible. Chand highlighted that these fights will create new opportunities for local boxers, including women. The outcome of the women’s bout between Amo Wai and Maureen Chand will determine who earns a chance to fight in England.
“If Winston Hill wins this match, he will get a world title shot granted by IBO, bringing him one step closer to one of the three belts available,” Chand said.
He also assured boxing fans and families that there would be a strong security presence to prevent any incidents similar to the one that occurred at Lawaqa Park last month. Chand urged boxing clubs and boxers to ensure that their trainers are registered with the BCF, stating, “Only four people will be permitted in the ring; one boxer, two trainers, and a cornerman if he possesses a license from BCF.”
“Boxers without registered trainers will have to enter the ring accompanied by someone who is registered, so it’s important to get your team registered,” he added. Chand confirmed that there will be 30 private security personnel and 25 police officers present at the venue.
Furthermore, an international IBO referee will be assisting local referees and officials for the event.