Ubayd Haider has labeled his upcoming IBO (International Boxing Organisation) Oceania-Orient vacant featherweight title match against China’s Runqi Zhou as the most significant challenge of his boxing career.
“My preparation for the fight began this week after a lengthy break, and I’m determined to leave no stone unturned,” Haider stated. He noted a key difficulty in his preparation is the scarcity of sparring partners available in Fiji. As a result, he will concentrate on training alone.
Zhou is known to be a formidable opponent. “I need to match him in the ring, as he has a high work rate. While I don’t believe he possesses knockout power, he certainly knows how to box,” Haider explained. Their battle is set for October 26 at Prince Charles Park in Nadi during a South Pacific boxing promotion.
Haider mentioned that his solo training is due to his work commitments alongside the fight schedule, and he trains at the Uptown boxing gym in Suva. He is inviting fans to come and witness what he describes as an intense bout.
“It’s going to be a bloodbath; we’ll likely both have broken noses and cuts around our eyes—it’s going to be a war,” he declared. He acknowledged that Zhou trains with a strong team, including world champions like the Maloney twins, Alex Winwood, and Bruno Tarimo, making the fight an uphill battle.
Haider is aware that some critics will likely attend with hopes of seeing him lose. “I’m going to be well-prepared for the fight, and I aim for victory just like any other fighter,” he asserted. He believes his boxing footwork and height give him an advantage over Zhou.
Haider expressed gratitude to South Pacific Boxing promotions and Amarok Accessories for their support.