PNGBF looks to make new associates

 By JACK AMI

SOLOMON Islands and New Caledonia professional boxing bodies  are keen to associate with the PNG Boxing Federation to participate in professional event.

Solomon Islands’ Rodney Rupokets and his New Caledonia counterpart Regina Leka are determined to see that pro boxing is promoted and developed in their countries.

Both Pacific men emailed PNGBF’s vice-president Alex Rihatta after sighting his involvement on social media website Facebook.

Rihatta said PNGBF was willing to associate with the two Pacific neighbours to promote and develop amateur and professional boxing. 

He has confirmed that four boxers, John Korake, John Deklam, Theo Torot and Victor Lani including two officials will travel to Solomon Islands or New Caledonia in September or October.

Rupokets will meet up with the boxing executives over the coming weeks, to discuss plans to host shows involving boxers from PNG.

“I’m trying to convince these boxing executives here (Solomon Is) to hold more competitions, so that we can attract international bouts, like you guys coming over,” Rupockets said.

“I am still at the planning stages, so I will let you know if any concrete developments come,” Rupockets said in a recent email.

“My approach is more commercial events-orientated in order to promote our stagnant boxing sport in the Solomons.” 

Rupockets will table his request and vision to host amateur and pro boxing in this month’s National Olympic Council Solomon Islands (NOCSI) meeting, in order to see how private promoters can work with the PNGBF, regarding its rules/regulations when hosting international promoted fights.