Promoter tells of India’s support

Kings Boxing promoter Nahroon Buksh says support from the Government of India, through the High Commission of India in Suva, has enabled the promotion to bring Indian boxers to compete in Fiji.

Speaking to SUNsports yesterday, Buksh said financial and logistical assistance from Indian partners had helped secure the participation of the overseas fighters.

“The Indian Government through the High Commission of India have assisted us in terms of airfares and logistics,” he said.

“We also have support from three major Indian companies in the country — New India Assurance, Life Insurance Corporation of India. Their support has helped us bring boxers from overseas.”

He said signing Australian and New Zealand boxers had been an expensive exercise.

“It is very costly to bring boxers from Australia and New Zealand to fight in Fiji. Like any other business we are mindful to controlling our expenses. We don’t want to spend heavily in signing up these Australian and New Zealand boxers who come over and easily beat their local opponents. Our aim is to develop Fijian boxers and help build future champions,” he said.

Buksh said the support from India had made things more affordable, while boxers from Australia and New Zealand generally wanted to be paid in US or Australian dollars.

He revealed that his July 25 promotion in Suva would feature 13 professional fights, one veterans’ bout and four junior contests.

“We have three overseas boxers while the rest are all locals,” he said.

The Indian boxers are Rohit Chauhan, Harjot Singh and Anam Khan.

Singh will fight Junior Binnu Singh, while Anam Khan will take on Laite Nanovu in the women’s division. In the main bout, stylish lightweight boxer Rohit Chauhan will face Mikaele Ravalaca.

Buksh said fans could also expect two heavyweight clashes.

“Fiji heavyweight champion Semi Dauloloma will fight Sanivalati Ratu in a six-round contest, while Joseph Kwadjo will meet Kimo Vakalalabure in an eight-round heavyweight bout,” he added.

Ravalaca and Junior Binnu Singh will both defend their World Boxing Association (WBA) Oceania titles on the card.

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