Hardwork, Faith Drives Singh On

James “The Beast” Singh retained the Fiji heavyweight title in style after knocking out Semi Dauloloma in the second round of their title fight at the Vodafone Arena in Suva on Saturday.

“The victory was sweet as I put in a lot of work and I want to thank everybody who helped me especially my family,” Singh told SUNsports.

Singh said he is a devoted Catholic and faith is a big part of his life.

“I pray before I do anything even before sparring, fight and after a fight because it’s a part of my daily life, “he said.

Singh said he usually weighed in at 130kilogramme but the Dauloloma clash he tipped the scale at 107kg.

“I wanted Semi to fight the real James Singh not the big belly one and then make a name for himself because I’ve done a lot of hard work to get that belt, “he said.

“If someone wants to take it from me, he has to put in a lot of hard work. I worked so hard to get to 107kg.”

Singh acknowledged trainer Osea Nanovu and sparring partner Joseph Kwadjo.

“We did all the natural training like hill sprints so no fancy stuff and I’d spar with Kwadjo every Saturday along with the boys in his gym,” he said.

Singh also credited his wife Manisha as she is his main trainer at their home.

“She prepares my food, clothes and she times my punches in training as I don’t have a trainer for 24-hours only once in a week when I come to Suva or when I can afford through sponsorship, “ he said.

Singh said he was thankful to the large turnout by the fans and hopes it continues in future fights.

“Now the fight is finished, Semi and I are brothers out of the ring because in the ring it’s just business,” he said.

Singh acknowledged his sponsor Rooster Chicken, Henry’s Pawnshop and Fiji Beach House.

“I also want to thank my work director Craig de la Mare from Epic International, my elder brother Rajendra Singh and his wife Jimaima for their support from day one, “he said.

Singh revealed that he is in discussion with Tuwai Promotions for another fight.

“If the money is good, I’ll make it happen but for now I just want to spend time with my family,” he said.

Other results:

Mikaele Ravolaca beat Junior Farzan Ali by first round knockout, Jonathan Hill beat Donasio Macedru third round technical knockout, Rakuro Dauvavana beat Mohammed Ali third round knockout.

Story By: Ioane Asioli

Feedback: ioane.asioli@fijisun.com.fj