Boxing, one of Vanuatu’s most successful individual sports and a discipline that has carried the country’s name onto the international stage for many years, has experienced a significant decline compared to previous years.

The sport’s return now depends on meeting a number of international requirements set by World Boxing before competitions can resume fully in Vanuatu.

VBTC Sports News spoke with Vanuatu Boxing Association Secretary, Sawia Noel Steven, who explained some of the challenges facing the sport.

“One thing that every country in the world is now being asked to do is affiliate with World Boxing and comply with its requirements, new rules, and competition categories,” Mr Steven said.

He pointed to an experience during the 2023 Pacific Games preparations in Solomon Islands, where Vanuatu’s boxers trained in categories that were later found not to be recognised under the tournament’s World Boxing regulations.

“When we arrived in Solomon Islands, we found out that some of the categories our athletes had trained for were not recognised under the tournament rules. We were informed that only World Boxing categories would be used for competition,” he said.

Mr Steven said bringing boxing back to full operation will require extensive training for coaches and officials to meet international standards.

“We need recognised one-star coaches and trainers from the region to provide training on the new rules and requirements. There are several preparations we must complete before we can be recognised and allowed to organise boxing tournaments again,” he said.

He added that a lack of funding has been one of the biggest obstacles slowing progress.

“The work needed requires funding. We need technical experts to help develop the constitution, update regulations, and ensure everything meets World Boxing standards,” Mr Steven said.

Another key requirement is the inclusion of women in the sport.

“In the past we focused mainly on male boxing, but under the new requirements women must also be included in tournaments and development programmes. Women’s participation is now an important part of what World Boxing expects from member countries,” he said.

The Vanuatu Boxing Association is continuing efforts to meet the necessary requirements with the hope of restoring boxing competitions and strengthening the sport’s future in the country.

Photo supplied.