Veteran boxing trainer Lepani Wilson has urged the Boxing Commission of Fiji (BCF) to refrain from making public statements while an investigation into the death of boxer Ubayd Haider is ongoing. Wilson’s comments came in response to a press conference held by BCF Chairman Adi Narayan and board member Eroni Loganimoce, during which they announced the suspension of South Pacific Boxing Promotions (SPBP) license, citing promoter Fred Chand’s social media remarks as the reason.
Wilson emphasized the need for respect during this sensitive time, stating, “This is sad because we’ve got the investigation going on, and we should respect it. This is a serious issue where life matters.” He pointed out the importance of maturity and sensitivity as a grieving family processes the loss of their loved one.
Reflecting on his past experience with the death of boxer Filimoni Takayawa in the 1990s when he served as president of the Professional Boxing Wrestling Association (PBWA), Wilson dissected the responsibilities involved in such tragic circumstances. He recalled working with boxing authorities, promoters, and legal representatives to establish safety measures for boxers and emphasized that blame should not rest solely on a single individual, in this case, the promoter. “Everyone shares the blame because there were processes not followed by those that were supposed to do it,” he stated.
Wilson’s experience calls for a collective effort to ensure safety in the sport, underscoring that now is the time for action and improvement to prevent future tragedies.
In conclusion, the boxing community must come together, learn from these difficult situations, and implement changes that prioritize the safety and well-being of athletes. This collaborative approach can foster a positive change in the sport, highlighting Wilson’s hopeful vision for a safer environment for boxers in Fiji.
Leave a comment