The family of Ubayd Haider, a celebrated boxer from Fiji, is calling for clarity regarding the circumstances surrounding his tragic death following an incident at the South Pacific Boxing Promotion fights on October 26. The 25-year-old, born Nathan Singh, passed away at Lautoka’s Aspen Hospital after being in a coma for 16 days and undergoing brain surgery.
Describing the situation as devastating, Haider’s father, veteran boxing trainer Gyan Singh, expressed the family’s need for answers. “We need answers on what happened,” he stated, highlighting the heartbreak of losing a talented young athlete.
Haider had faced off against China’s Runqi Zhou in an IBO Asia Pacific Featherweight title bout, where he suffered a technical knockout in the ninth round. After the match, he collapsed en route to his changing room. Despite efforts from his team and being rushed to various hospitals, he succumbed to his injuries.
In line with the Boxing Commission of Fiji’s regulations, there are expectations for safety measures such as having a stretcher available ringside before fights commence. This has raised questions about the adherence to these safety protocols during the event. The boxing community and Haider’s opponent, Runqi Zhou, have extended their condolences, acknowledging Haider’s spirit and determination.
Haider leaves behind his wife, Helen Margaret Singh, and their two young children. In a heartfelt message, she expressed her gratitude for their years together and the legacy of their children, referring to them as “mini–Nathaniel Singhs.”
Following the incident, the Government and the Boxing Commission of Fiji have established a Commission of Inquiry, chaired by Pita Driti, to investigate the circumstances of Haider’s death. This includes questioning at least ten individuals to gather a clearer picture of the events.
As the family prepares for his funeral, which will be held later today, the boxing community and fans rally in support of Haider’s legacy, while the inquiry seeks to ensure that such tragedies are prevented in the future.
It is a somber reminder of the risks faced by athletes in contact sports, but may also is an opportunity for the boxing community to advocate for stringent safety measures to protect fighters and preserve the integrity of the sport.
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