Fijian boxers should be better prepared for bouts before stepping into the ring if boxing fans are to support the sport.
That’s the verdict of former Suva-based boxing trainer Lepani Wilson following the Pathway Pacific Showdown Lewis Hill Promotion in Suva two weeks ago.
Wilson, now based in Australia where he continues to train Pasifika boxers, believes by not preparing well, local boxers will continue to kill the interest in the sport.
“I am not saying that it is bad to have the promotions. That is all well and good and we need it. But the boxers should be prepared well so they do not become disappointments and fans lose interest again.
“Fans are paying big bucks now to watch and they have to get their money’s worth.”
He is calling on the Fiji Boxing Commission, trainers, and all stakeholders to work together on that.
“The product is very important. The product must be up to the standard because people are paying to watch boxing,” he said.
“I believe that is paramount going forward. If we do not do that, then we will see the revival backtrack again.”
Wilson groomed boxers such as former Fiji super middleweight champion Frank Atu, heavyweight Fatu Tuimanono, Paula Tuilau, Waisele Ratu and Tevita Vakalalabure.
