Former Fiji boxing champion Sebastian Singh has publicly voiced his opposition to the Boxing Commission of Fiji’s (BCF) recent decision to revoke titles from local champions who have not defended them within the specified timeframe. In a video statement, Singh expressed his concern over the commission’s directive demanding that boxers return their belts if they do not defend their titles.
Singh highlighted the financial aspect of holding a boxing title in Fiji, noting that boxers typically pay fees when participating in title fights. He believes that if a boxer chooses not to defend their title, they should still be allowed to keep it as a symbol of their hard work and dedication. “I think that’s more than fair,” he insisted, emphasizing the importance of recognizing the achievements of champions.
He also pointed out the economic challenges faced by champions when it comes to arranging title defenses. Singh criticized the low payment options presented to boxers, suggesting that offers of $2,000 or $3,000 fall short of what champions deserve. “As a champion, you should be paid accordingly. It’s not easy becoming a champion in boxing,” he noted.
Moreover, Singh raised questions about the origin and application of the BCF’s new rules, comparing them to standard regulations internationally. He received messages from officials in other boxing organizations around the world, indicating that such practices are not common elsewhere.
In response, BCF chairman Adi Narayan defended the commission’s stance, explaining that a champion can retain their title only after successfully defending it three times. “Here, this man did not follow that and is refusing to give us the title back,” Narayan remarked, referencing cases like former super-middleweight champion Siliveni Nawai and bantamweight champion Shamal Ram Anuj.
Narayan also urged current champions to take proactive steps in engaging with promoters to arrange title defenses, stating, “We must get these titles current.” Singh concluded his statements by reminding the commission of the realities and challenges of boxing, emphasizing that it is a tough sport that requires recognition and respect.
This ongoing dispute highlights the complexities within the boxing community in Fiji, where financial and regulatory issues intersect with the sport’s traditional practices. The conversation sparked by Singh’s remarks and the BCF’s policies provides a critical look at how local boxing can adapt to support its champions while ensuring the integrity of the sport remains intact.