The family of Ubayd Haider, a talented boxer from Fiji, is seeking clarity regarding the events that led to his tragic death following a boxing match on October 26 at Prince Charles Park in Nadi. Haider, also known as Nathan Singh, passed away at Lautoka’s Aspen Hospital after spending 16 days in a coma and undergoing brain surgery.
His father, Gyan Singh, a veteran boxing trainer, expressed the family’s devastation and emphasized the need for answers about the incident. Haider, whose promising career was abruptly cut short, lost his title fight against China’s Runqi Zhou by technical knockout in the ninth round and collapsed shortly after in the changing room. He was swiftly taken to Zen’s Medical, then transferred to Nadi Hospital and later to Lautoka Aspen Hospital.
According to the Boxing Commission of Fiji’s regulations, promoters are required to ensure that a stretcher is available ringside before fights commence. This raises questions about protocol adherence during the event.
Runqi Zhou expressed his condolences on social media, acknowledging Haider as a fighter who remained resilient until the end. Haider leaves behind his wife, Helen Margaret Singh, and two children, for whom she expressed deep love and gratitude for their time together, cherishing the memories and their children.
In response to the incident, the government and the Boxing Commission of Fiji have initiated a Commission of Inquiry to investigate further, with interviews of at least ten individuals planned. The inquiry aims to ensure accountability and improve safety regulations in the sport to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
Haider’s body will be available for public viewing at the FMF Gym before his funeral, which will be held later today. Throughout his boxing career, he accumulated a record of 10 wins and 2 losses, with 6 of those victories coming by way of knockout.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the inherent risks in contact sports and highlights the importance of rigorous safety measures to protect athletes. As the investigation unfolds, there is hope that it will lead to enhanced safety protocols and support for boxers in Fiji, ensuring that the sport can continue to develop while prioritizing the health and welfare of its athletes.
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