Former Fiji boxing champion Sebastian Singh has expressed strong disapproval of the Boxing Commission of Fiji’s (BCF) recent decision to strip titles from local champions who have not defended their championships within a specified period. In a recent video statement, Singh raised concerns about the commission’s directive mandating that boxers return their belts if they decide against defending their titles.
Singh emphasized the economic implications of holding a boxing title in Fiji, where boxers are typically required to pay fees when participating in title bouts. He argued that even if a boxer opts not to defend their title, they should be permitted to keep it as a testament to their hard work and commitment. “I think that’s more than fair,” Singh stated, underscoring the importance of celebrating the achievements of champions.
The former champion also highlighted the financial difficulties faced by titleholders in arranging defenses. Singh criticized the inadequate compensation offered to boxing champions, suggesting that payments ranging from $2,000 to $3,000 do not reflect their true worth. “As a champion, you should be paid accordingly. It’s not easy becoming a champion in boxing,” he remarked.
Additionally, Singh questioned the origins and enforcement of the BCF’s new regulations, drawing comparisons to standard practices observed internationally in the sport. He noted that he had received feedback from officials in global boxing organizations, indicating that such stringent practices regarding title retention are not commonplace.
In response to Singh’s remarks, BCF chairman Adi Narayan defended the commission’s policy, clarifying that a champion is only allowed to retain their title after defending it successfully on three occasions. “This man did not follow that and is refusing to give us the title back,” Narayan stated, referencing instances involving past champions such as former super-middleweight champion Siliveni Nawai and bantamweight champion Shamal Ram Anuj.
Narayan further encouraged current champions to proactively engage with promoters to organize title defenses, insisting, “We must get these titles current.” In his concluding remarks, Singh reminded the commission of the harsh realities and challenges faced by boxers, insisting that it is a demanding sport that requires proper recognition and respect.
This ongoing dispute sheds light on the intricate dynamics within the boxing community in Fiji, where economic and regulatory challenges intersect with the sport’s traditional practices. The dialogue initiated by Singh’s criticisms and the BCF’s policies offers a significant examination of how local boxing can evolve to better support its champions while maintaining the sport’s integrity.