The family of Ubayd Haider, a celebrated boxer from Fiji, is seeking clarity surrounding the events that led to his tragic death. Haider, previously known as Nathan Singh, passed away at Lautoka’s Aspen Hospital after spending 16 days in a coma following complications from a match on October 26 at Prince Charles Park in Nadi.
Devastated by the loss, Gyan Singh, Haider’s father and an experienced boxing trainer, expressed the family’s urgent need for answers regarding the incident that struck down his talented son. “It is a sad day for us,” Singh said, highlighting his son’s potential as a boxer.
Haider faced China’s Runqi Zhou in the IBO Asia Pacific Featherweight title bout, suffering a technical knockout in the ninth round. He collapsed while heading to his changing room, prompting immediate responses from teammates and event organizers who rushed him to medical care.
The Boxing Commission of Fiji stipulates that promoters are responsible for ensuring that a stretcher is present ringside before matches commence, raising questions about adherence to safety regulations.
Runqi Zhou shared his condolences on social media, remembering Haider as a determined fighter. The late boxer is survived by his wife, Helen Margaret Singh, and their two children. Helen expressed gratitude for the time they shared, cherishing the memories and their children as lasting gifts from Haider.
In the wake of this incident, the Government and the Boxing Commission of Fiji have initiated a Commission of Inquiry to investigate the circumstances surrounding Haider’s passing, with expected questioning of at least ten individuals as part of the process.
As the community mourns, the public is invited to pay their respects at the FMF Gym, with the funeral to follow later in the day at the Raralevu Muslim Cemetery.
This tragic event serves as a poignant reminder of the inherent risks faced by athletes in combat sports, alongside the importance of ensuring rigorous safety measures are upheld to protect their well-being.
Summary:
Ubayd Haider, a promising Fijian boxer, passed away after a match that ended in a technical knockout. His family is seeking answers about the conditions leading to his death, especially given the obligations of event promoters regarding safety provisions. A Commission of Inquiry is underway, emphasizing community support during this tragic time.
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