Drug test boxers: Naidu

Fiji Sports

Former Fijian boxer, Akuila NaiduA former boxer is urging the sports governance to have mandatory drug tests for boxers in the country.

Akuila Naidu, the renowned 70-80s, Southseas middleweight and Welterweight champion calls on random testing for boxers.  

Naidu’s call comes in the aftermath of last Saturday night’s brawl between James Singh and Semi Dauloloma heavyweight contest at Nadroga’s Lawaqa Park.

“With all the drama in the sport in the last few years, we need to ask some serious questions,” he said.

Naidu said it seems like some boxers have some sort of problems, adding he’s afraid it has to do with substance abuse.

“Boxers disorderly conduct is on the rise, I'm not saying they're doing it but their behaviour raises the suspicion.

“Mood-swing, nervous breakdown or changing demeanour, what is it.”

Naidu said the governing body needs to bring about radical changes for the safety and security of the boxers.

“Drug testing is about the integrity of the competition. Have they given it a thought."

Boxers world over go through random drug tests and those that return positive face consequences, like being banned from the sport for a specified period, and in worst cases banned completely from the competition.

“If anyone is found to use illegal performance enhancing drugs, must be put away from sport.”

Naidu added that the sanctioning body also needs to hold the promoters and boxers and to account.

“Everyone has to play its part in keeping the sport clean, boxing is vicious and could inflict serious injuries if boxers aren’t properly trained.

“Drugs don’t help, it only seriously harms a boxer in the long run,” said Naidu.