The South Pacific Boxing Promotions (SPBP) is making a call to corporate entities, encouraging them to support the development of boxing in Vanua Levu. The plea came from the SPBP promoter, Fred Chand, as they gear up toward their boxing event billed for August 10 at Subrail Park in Labasa.
According to Chand, the business sector’s help is indispensable in their efforts to breathe new life into boxing on the island, considering the sport last happened in the area in 2015, marking a nine-year absence.
He expressed his surprise at the palpable excitement from current and previous boxers during a survey in the provinces of Macuata, Cakaudrove, and Bua. The boxing talents in the area have impressive records, but lack the funds for regular participation in fights on Viti Levu.
Chand pointed out that the North had brought forth exceptional boxers at both amateur and professional levels, with notable figures like Joe Keresi and Gyan Kumar, the Fiji Oceania Championship gold medalists. There were also the likes of Taslim Shah, Mohammed Arif, and Osea Nakanacagi who bagged silver and gold at the Oceania and South Pacific Games respectively.
The SPBP, according to Chand, looks to offer promising boxers in Vanua Levu, the opportunity they require, as part of their program. He stood open to discussions with any company interested in sponsoring their boxing program.
The most awaited encounter of their forthcoming event is the ten-round match between Fiji’s super welterweight champion and 2018 Commonwealth Games bronze winner, Winston Hill, competing against Roy Ser from Vanuatu.