Three International Boxing Organisation (IBO) Asia Pacific titles will be up for grabs at the South Pacific Boxing Promotions scheduled for next month. The Boxing Commission of Fiji (BCF) chairman, Adi Narayan, announced at the event launch that the program has received approval from IBO Australia.
The event is set to take place on October 26 at Prince Charles Park in Nadi and will also include a local title fight along with several other local matches, including a women’s bout.
In a notable first, 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. The third international fight for the super welterweight title will feature Winston Hill and Lachlan O’Shea.
“This is a unique occasion; I don’t recall it happening in the last three years,” Narayan stated. “This is a great opportunity for our boxers to showcase their skills on an international platform.”
In addition to the international bouts, Hill’s brother, Jonathan Pedro Hill, will challenge Siliveni Nawai for the Fijian super middleweight title. The fifth fight on the card will pit Jese Ravudi against Vanuatu’s Roy Ser.
Narayan praised promoter Freddy Chand and director Mohammed Shameem for their efforts in making this event possible. Chand highlighted that these matches will create new opportunities for local boxers, including women.
The outcome of a women’s fight between Amo Wai and Maureen Chand will determine who will earn a match in England. Chand mentioned that if Winston Hill secures victory, he will receive a world title shot granted by the IBO.
Chand assured boxing fans and families that strong security measures would be in place to prevent incidents similar to those that occurred at Lawaqa Park last month. He urged boxing clubs and fighters to ensure their trainers are registered with the BCF.
“Only four individuals will be permitted in the ring; one boxer, two trainers, and a cart man if he holds a BCF license,” he explained. “If a boxer does not have registered trainers, they will be accompanied by someone who is registered.”
“Security will be robust, with 30 private security personnel and 25 police officers present at the venue,” he added. An international IBO referee is also confirmed to assist local referees and officials during the event.