Three International Boxing Organisation (IBO) Asia Pacific titles are set to be contested at the upcoming South Pacific Boxing Promotions event next month. Adi Narayan, chairman of the Boxing Commission of Fiji (BCF), confirmed during the event’s launch that the program has received endorsement from IBO Australia.
Scheduled for October 26 at Prince Charles Park in Nadi, the event will include a local title fight, as well as several matches featuring local talent, including a women’s bout. Notably, this event will mark the first time siblings are fighting for international titles. Sebastian Singh will compete against “King” Tonga Tongotongo for the IBO Asia Pacific cruiserweight title, while his younger brother Ubayd Haider will face China’s Runqi Zhou for the IBO Asia Pacific featherweight title. Additionally, Winston Hill and Lachlan O’Shea will fight for the super welterweight title.
“This is a unique opportunity; I can’t remember this happening in the last three years,” Narayan remarked. “It allows our boxers to showcase their skills on an international platform.”
Hill’s brother, Jonathan Pedro Hill, will also be in action, challenging Siliveni Nawai for the Fijian super middleweight title, while Jese Ravudi is set to face Vanuatu’s Roy Ser. Narayan credited promoter Freddy Chand and director Mohammed Shameem for facilitating this event.
Chand emphasized 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 play a crucial role in determining who will secure a fight in England.
“If Winston Hill wins this match, he’ll be in line for a world title shot granted by the IBO, bringing him one step closer to that goal,” Chand stated. He assured boxing fans and families that stringent security measures will be in place to prevent any incidents similar to what occurred at Lawaqa Park last month.
Chand also urged boxing clubs and athletes to ensure their trainers are registered with the BCF. “Only four individuals will be allowed in the ring: one boxer, two trainers, and a cornerman if he is licensed with the BCF. If a boxer comes without registered trainers, they must enter with someone who is registered, so it’s crucial to have your team registered.”
He further guaranteed that security will be a priority, with 30 private security personnel and 25 police officers stationed at the event. An international IBO referee will also be present to assist local referees and officials.