In Fiji, the dream of becoming a professional boxer often begins with the amateur ranks, but for many, this pathway presents challenges that risk stifling talent and limiting opportunities.
Local boxing coach Osea Nanovu has voiced concerns about the restrictive approach of the Fiji Amateur Boxing Association (FABA), which, he says, is preventing boxers from fully realising their potential by blocking their participation in professional exhibitions.
“Not every amateur boxer will become a member of Team Fiji or an Olympian,” Nanovu explains.
“Amateur boxing is meant to be the foundation where fighters build their skills and prepare for professional careers, where they can earn a living from their talent.”
Yet, the current stance of FABA, which prohibits boxers from competing in professional programs, is holding many athletes back from advancing their careers and supporting their families.
Nanovu stresses that boxing is more than just medals and accolades.
“Winning medals is great, but medals don’t put food on the table. Families need to eat, and boxers need to have a career they can sustain.”
He argues that FABA should adopt a more flexible approach, recognising that as boxers age, they require opportunities to transition into professional fights rather than being confined to amateur status indefinitely.
The coach also questions whether FABA has a clear succession plan in place to develop future boxers or if the organisation is more focused on maintaining control.
“If FABA is worried about losing talent, they can always train new boxers,” Nanovu says.
“But by restricting opportunities for current boxers, they risk pushing fighters to bypass the amateur level completely.”
This issue highlights why the International Boxing Association’s (IBA) recent reinstatement in Fiji is seen by many as a positive development.
The IBA’s structure allows for crossover between amateur and professional bouts, giving boxers the flexibility to compete in both arenas and better manage their career progression.
For aspiring Fijian boxers, the sport is a passion, but it must also be a viable career path.
As Nanovu puts it: “Boxer’s love to box, but they also need to put food on the table for their families.”
The time has come for the governing bodies in Fiji to work together, creating a balanced system that nurtures talent, respects the realities of life, and supports the future of boxing as a professional career.
Without this, many promising fighters may be forced to look elsewhere for opportunities, jeopardising the sport locally while crushing the dreams of its athletes.
Meanwhile, questions have been sent to FABA and they are expected to respond in the coming days.
Ratu Rakuro connects a left jab on Ronald Naidu during the June 2023 Welterweight contest boxing match at the FMF Gym in Suva. Picture: JONACANI LALAKOBAU/ FILE
Action between Alivereti Kauyaca and Filimoni Naliva Junior in 2020. Picture: FT FILE
