Get Another Boxer for Ali Says Trainer

Renowned boxing trainer John Ramos has called on South Pacific Boxing Promotions (SPBP) promoter Fred Chand to get another opponent for Mohammed Ali, if Mikaele Ravalawa decides to withdraw.

Speaking from Vancouver, Canada, yesterday Ramos said the Boxing Commission of Fiji should stay away from the matter.

“Mika has signed the contract and will not fight in the (May 18) programme and that his coach has explained the reasons to the promoter,” Ramos said.

“With a month’s notice, in my opinion the promoter should replace him (Ravalawa) with another top contender.

“The Boxing Commission should not get involved because it is a conflict of interest.”

Ramos said the matter is between the boxer and the promoter.

“If the boxer took advance money for training expenses than it becomes a legal issue. The promoter can sue the boxer for not honouring the agreement.”

Ramos reiterated that the Boxing Commission is not the promoter and it should not sign or be involved.

“The Commission should only act when the promoter submit his or her programme for approval or sanctioning.

“The relationship is that the promoter is the employer and the boxer is the employee.”

When contacted Chand said they are working on getting an overseas opponent for Ali.

The negotiation is now being done by SPBP director Mohammed Shameem who also resides in Vancouver.

The May 18 programme’s main bout is for the IBO (International Boxing Organisation) Asia Pacific super welterweight title between Fiji’s Winston Hill and Jyl Wright of Australia.

The main supporting bout is a 10-round title fight between challenger Umbadullah Haider and Fiji super featherweight champion Krishnil Mudaliar.

Chand said other confirmed undercard is the cruiserweight clash between Sebastian Singh and New Zealand-based Ratu Dawai.

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