06 February, 2013

Samoa professional boxing have been very quiet in the last six months, nor have we heard any news of upcoming fights for Samoan champs like Vaitele Soi and Warren Fuiava.

But according to Pa'u Edwin Puni of local boxing promotion company Event Polynesia, "It's the calm before the storm."

Mr. Puni has confirmed that a deal has been signed for Pele Faumui to fight Rohan Murdoch of Australia in the Cold Coast in Queensland for the WBO Super Middle Weight Asia Pacific Youth Title on 2nd of March.

"We also have a deal on the table right now for Warren Fuiava of Samoa to fight Australian prospect Blake Caparello for one of the recognised regional world title in the light heavyweight division in Melbourne on the 18th April."

Pa'u is excited about 2013, "We've come a long way on the smell of an oily rag in establishing and developing a pathway for Samoan boxers to earn a living after their amateur careers like in professional rugby and rugby league."

This year is the final stage of a five year plan that started in 2007 by default with the Monty Betham Jr debut fight in Samoa which Event Polynesia co-promoted with local travel company Polynesian Xplorer in association with local sanctioning bodies, the South Pacific Boxing Inc (SPBI) and Samoa Amateur Boxing Association (SABA).

In the beginning of 2008 Event Polynesia became a licensed promoter with the World Boxing Organisation (WBO) to stage the WBO Asia Pacific cruiserweight title fight between Laurence Tauasa and Charles Baou of New Caledonia in Apia. Lawrence won the title, got the purse money while Event Polynesia tolled for another twelve months paying off all the expenses.

October 2008, Event Polynesia secured fight for Samoan light heavyweight champion Togasilimai Letoa to fight New Zealand champ Soulan Pounceby for the WBO Asia Pacific light heavyweight title in Auckland. Togasilimai lost the fight and have since gone on with mix success in Australia.

In 2009 Event Polynesia moved into boxer management with Vaitele Soi and Warren Fuiava as its first signing followed by a co-management five years deal for Leti Leti to train and fight in Las Vegas. Leti has returned to Samoa for family reasons and have also gone on with a second win in Australia in December last year.

Today, Event Polynesia has a good stable of about fifteen boxers after elimination bouts at the Samoa Pro-Am Fights at Faleata Gym 1 to establish local ranking. To gain experience, Event Polynesia invested in getting some of the promising boxers to fight in Fiji, Tahiti, New Zealand, China and the Philippines in the past few years.

According to Pa'u, "We are fully aware of the huge expectations to see top fights in Samoa. But that's putting the cart before the horse. We need to have our boxing talent trained well, need to have local and regional tournaments for the boxers to develop their skills. This is why the Pacific Rim Boxing Championship (PRBC) was established last year."

Negotiations are underway for a regional world title fight to be the main event at this year's Samoa Independence fight night on Thursday 30th May 2013 with top fighters from the Pacific taking on Samoa's best in the undercards of the PRBC Samoa leg.

Event Polynesia acknowledges the support from the Samoa Government over the years through TAB, the Samoa Independence committee and SSFA; its development partners JP Fitness, Motor 1 Samoa and outfitter Carisbrook NZ; sponsors Bluesky, Vailima Breweries, Agility Logistics, Pacific Ezy Money Transfer and EMAYSE, also media partners over the years Samoa Observer, TV3, TV1, Radio 2AP and support of Samoa media locally and abroad.

Pa'u is confident that the pathway been put in place five years ago by Event Polynesia will deliver at least one regional world champion from Samoa this year.
 

Photos - Vaitele Soi, Pele Faumui, Leti Leti & Warren Fuiava (left). Pele Faumiu WBO Asia Pacific Title Contender (right).
 

25 November, 2012

Pacific Rim Boxing Championship chairman, Mr. Edwin Puni sees the latest development in international rugby as an affirmation of the pathway been put in place to see professional boxing in the Pacific mixing it with the best in the near future.

The new playing schedule devised by the IRB, is a big boost to rugby in the Pacific with all three of the leading Pacific rugby union playing nations, Fiji, Tonga and Samoa, played three internationals, including matches against tier one teams on their Southern Hemisphere tour.

Mr. Puni said, "Bottom line is, we need more international tournaments in order for Pacific boxers to develop their talent and build their records. The establishment of the PRBC is a small step in the right direction but we need fights in Australia and New Zealand."

Last week's Danny Green vs. Shane Cameron fight saw up and coming prospect Brad Pitt in the cruiserweight score an explosive TKO win in round 3 over aging Fijian boxer Mosese Sorovi.

Samoan cruiserweight champ Vaitele Soi who boasts an impressive professional record of 20-0, 14 by way of knock out was approached to fight Brad Pitt but the deal fell through, Puni confirmed.

Puni said, "A Brad Pitt of Australia vs. Vaitele Soi of Samoa showdown is the fight to watch out for in 2013. Both are title contenders with Shane Cameron of New Zealand in the mix if he decides to stay in the cruiserweight division."

In the light heavyweight division Puni said, "I would like to see undefeated Warren Fuiava of Samoa take on Robbie Berridge of New Zealand in a title contest in the absence of Soulan Pounceby before taking on Blake Caparello of Australia."

"Pele Faumui of Samoa who is fighting Fiji middleweight champion Abhay Chand later this week in Nadi has unfinished business with Gunnar Jackson of New Zealand. A Faumui vs. Jackson rematch will be a real cracker and a more explosive fight than their last encounter on the Tua
vs. Demitrice card last year."

Promising welterweight Leti Leti is currently out of sight but not out of mind.

According to Mr. Puni, "Leti needed time out to be with his family but there's no reason why we can't see Leti in action next year."

Also on Mr. Puni's wish list for 2013 is to see the big boys, Samoan born David Tua and Fijian heavyweight Kali Meehan in a home coming fight either in Nadi or Apia. "Both Tua and Meehan are great role models to aspiring local boxers. Imagine what a home fight will do for boxing in
their home country."

One thing Mr. Puni is certain of, "It's time to stop having Pacific boxers turn up in the ring in New Zealand and Australia ill prepared for a quick dollar and make a mockery of the sport and an embarrassment to their country."
 

Photos - Vaitele Soi, Pele Faumui, Leti Leti & Warren Fuiava (left). Samoa's Middleweight Champion Pele Faumui (right), who is fighting Fijian Middleweight Champion Abhay Chand this weekend.
 

24 November, 2012

Samoa's middleweight champion Pele Faumui heads to Fiji this week to go toe-to-toe with Fijian champ Abhay Chand for the main event of the Wild West Promotions program dubbed as the "Fight For Glory".

Faumui has beaten Chand twice before, first in Fiji and last year in Samoa, both on points.

This time is different according to Pele, ""Winning by points is no longer enough. I'm going for a knock-out win and that's why I've been sparring heavier boxers."

Under the watchful eye of trainer Asiata Napoleon Stanley, Faumui has been sparring with Samoa supermiddle champion Alema Sonny Vaele and light heavyweight Francis Mamoe.

Pele said, "Abhay is a tough fighter and I respect him. But I'm too fast and this time I will be hitting him harder."

For speed Faumui had also been sparring with Tony Iapesa who was on standby to fight Steve Heremaia in Auckland last week before Heremaia pulled out at the last minute.

Both Chand and Faumui have declared a week away from the fight that they are going into the December 1 fight night looking for a knock-out win.

Word from Fiji is that the crowd will see a new look Chand in the ring at Prince Charles Park in Nadi. "Chand will be fast and furious," said trainer and martial arts expert Farmaan Ali in a Fiji Times report.

According to Jenkins Tesese of Faumui's management, "I hope Fiji will turn up on the night to support Chand because Pele has no intention of losing in Fiji. He has trained well."

"We congratulate promoter Abdul Khan and Wild West Promotion for getting boxing back on in Fiji. There's so much talent in Fiji even Samoa. But without boxing tournaments, there's no development and future for boxers, trainers and officials," said Tesese.
 

Photos - Trainer Asiata Napoleon Stanley, Samoa Champion Pele Faumui and Jenkins Tesese of Event Polynesia (left). Samoa Middleweight Champion Pele Faumui training with Tony Iapesa (middle).
 

11 November, 2012

Pacific Rim Boxing Championship (PRBC) Chairman, Mr. Edwin Puni in a letter to Fiji promoter Mr. Abdul Khan said, "The confirmation of Samoa middleweight champion Pele Faumui's participation in your upcoming promotion is an affirmation of Samoa's commitment to the regional
initiative (PRBC) and in acknowledgement of the important role promoters play in the development of boxing which is mostly misunderstood."

"While the decision by Fiji not to send boxers to Samoa to PARTICIPATE IN THE INAUGURAL PRBC IN JUNE IS disappointing, I have since met with Mr. Ale Vena Ale, Samoa boxing commissioner and also met with Samoa PRBC promoter Mr. Tuilagi Saipele Esera to sort out any potential rift between Samoa and Fiji because of Fiji's decision."

The upcoming Wild West Boxing Promotion pro-am program on Saturday 1st December 2011 in Nadi is the first boxing program to be sanctioned by the new Boxing Commission of Fiji.

Mr. Puni said, "I am also in regular contact with Team Faumui. Pele is preparing well and looking forward to the return match in Nadi with Fiji middleweight champion Abhay Chand."
 

Photo - Pele Faumui, Samoa Middleweight Champion.
 

27 May, 2012

Four-time Australian heavyweight champion Bob Mirovic is confirmed to headline the Bluesky Samoa 50th Independence PRBC fightnight in Apia later this week.

Samoa promoter Mr. Tuilagi Saipele Esera said, “It’s unfortunate that Tahiti and Fiji initially confirmed to participate in the inaugural Pacific Rim Boxing Championship in Samoa had to pull out at the last week. It however provided the opportunity for a better card with the legendary Mirovic confirmed to be the main event.”

Samoan heavyweight contender Gogosina Ulutoa has just been handed the biggest fight of his boxing career. The heavyweight contest is expected to be all blood and guts in front of a vocal crowd.

English boxer Richard Hackney will be going toe to toe with Samoan welterweight sensation Iosia Nanai while Atalili Fai of New Zealand is confirmed to fight Samoa contender To’o Mitai. American Samoa gold medalist Alapati A’asa in the cruiserweight division will fight Saipeti Asiata of Samoa.

The other two pro fights is a Samoa elimination with Samoan Olypian Farani Tavui fighting up and coming cruiserweight Francis Mamoe while Tony Iapesa squares off with Michael Fonoti to decide the challenger for the Samoa welterweight title.

Six amateur bouts will feature an American Samoa selection against a Samoa selection for the Prime Minister’s Cup, plus opening bouts between a Savaii selection and a Upolu selection.

Last week PRBC Chairman Mr. Pa’u Edwin Puni congratulated Bluesky Samoa a regional telecommunication company for taking up the naming rights sponsorship.

Pa’u also challenged other businesses in the region to get behind boxing development in a collective endeavor to build the next Maselino Masoe, Jimmy Thunder, David Tua, Kali Meehan, Shane Cameron, Soulan Pounceby and Alex Leapai.

The Bluesky Samoa 50th Independence PRBC is on Thursday 31st May 2012, before the flag raising day.

Corporate Tables and Tickets are now on sale, contact Mr. Tuilagi Saipele Esera on (+685) 751-9458.
 

Photo - Four-time Australian heavyweight champion Mob Mirovic.
 

     TEAM NZ

25 May, 2012

It’s unfortunate that recent developments in local boxing administration in Tahiti and Fiji have prevented boxers representing both countries from participating in the inaugural Pacific Rim Boxing Championship in Samoa on the 31st May 2012.

However, the confirmation of Team New Zealand to attend including an English boxer and an American Samoa boxer will ensure the quality of professional bouts will be of international standard.

On behalf of the Pacific Rim Boxing Championship executive committee we wish to congratulate Samoa promoter Mr. Tuilagi Saipele Esera and the local boxing bodies, South Pacific Boxing Inc. (SPBI) and Samoa Amateur Boxing Association (SABA) in ensuring the upcoming PRBC Samoa will be a success in the collective interest of the PRBC member countries to establish a regional pathway forward for boxing development in the Pacific.

We also wish to congratulate Bluesky Samoa a regional telecommunication company for taking up the naming rights sponsorship. This sets the challenge to other businesses in the region to get behind boxing development in our collective endeavor to build the next Maselino Masoe, Jimmy Thunder, David Tua, Kali Meehan, Shane Cameron, Soulan Pounceby and Alex Leapai.

It is our pleasure to announce the new line up for the Bluesky Samoa 50th Independence PRBC fight night:

1. Samoa Welterweight (4 x 3)
Michael Fonoti vs Tony Iapesa


2. Samoa Light heavy (4 x 3)
Farani Tavu'i vs Francis Mamoe


3. PRBC Super Middle (6 x 3)
To'o Mita'i (Samoa) vs Atalili Fai (New Zealand)


4. PRBC Cruiserweight (4 x 3)
Saipeti Asiata (Samoa) vs Alapati Aasa (Am. Samoa)


5. PRBC Super Middle (6 x 3)
Iosia Nanai (Samoa) vs Richard Hackney (UK)


6. PRBC Heavyweight (6 x 3)
Gogosina Ulutoa (Samoa) vs Bob Mirovic (Australia)
 

12 May, 2012

The Samoa Government last week through the 50th Independence Committee presented the organizers of the upcoming Pacific Rim Boxing Championship with a cheque of $6,000 to assist with staging of the inaugural event. Earlier in the week a cheque of $10,000 from Totalisator Agency Board was also presented to the organisers to assist with hosting of teams from Fiji and Tahiti and overseas officials from New Zealand and New Caledonia.

The inaugural PRBC leg that was scheduled for New Zealand in April was pushed back to give Samoa the honors.

PRBC chairman Edwin Puni said, “New Zealand was to host the first leg with Samoa in December. But the decision to change is an acknowledgment of Samoa’s contribution to the development of boxing in the region. It is quite fitting that Samoa is given the honours to coincide with their 50th Independence celebration.

Samoa is one of the founding members of the PRBC with Fiji, Tahiti and a Pacific promotion representing New Zealand.

Samoa promoter Mr. Tuilagi Saipele and well respected sports administrator in the region said, “The support from Government in the last five years is paying off with the Samoa Pro Am Fights now being replaced by the regional tournament with Samoa hosting one of the legs during Independence each year.”

American Samoa as an affiliate member country is fielding one professional boxer, joined by an amateur selection to challenge a Samoa selection for the Prime Minister’s Cup. American Samoa has won one tournament of their three annual encounters.

The inaugural Pacific Rim Boxing Championship in Apia is on Thursday 31st May 2012, the day before the flag raising.

Corporate Tables and Tickets are now on sale.
 

Photo - Samoa Promoter Mr. Tuilagi Saipele Esera with boxer Monty Betham and Promoter Tuigamala ‘Inga’ Tuigamala in Auckland.
 

10 May, 2012

Chairman of the newly established Pacific Rim Boxing Championship (PRBC), Mr. Edwin Puni is calling for all boxing fraternities in the region to take the safety and welfare of boxers seriously.

The call comes following the tragic death of New Zealand boxer Willman Rodriques as a result of his bout in Tahiti.

Mr. Puni however is quick to brush aside any blame on Rodriques, his trainer Eugene, match making and Tahiti officials.

"This is a risk that all sports people take, not just boxing. I'm comfortable with the information that I've received to date that Rodriques was in good physical form and this was not a mismatch."

In a letter to Mr. Bayard Gobrait, President of the Polynesia Professional Boxing League, Mr. Puni wrote, "First let me extend my support to the boxing fraternity in Tahiti whom no doubt are affected by this unfortunate accident."

The unfortunate accident has affected many in the New Zealand boxing scene like respected veteran trainer Lolo Heimuli, "What intended to be a trip of a lifetime to the beautiful Island of Tahiti, while broaden fight experience, became a horror story to the family, friends and gym mates of Wilman Rodriquez. He was tragically punched during the first 30 seconds of the first round and died on his way to the hospital."

Lolo Heimuli also comes in defense of William's trainer Eugene, "Understandably he said he is quitting the fight games altogether. I don't blame him for feeling this way. But I hope he won't because there are lots of young (and old) under qualified coaches out there who would put young
fighters more at risk."

"Willman is one of the toughest I have ever seen. When the promoter's message was passed on to Eugene to look for a 60kg fighter, Willman's name was the first I thought about although they have other 60kg fighter at City Kickboxing."

PRBC Chairman Mr. Edwin Puni confirms that boxer safety and welfare will be part of the agenda when the Executive meets in Samoa later this month.
 

Photo - PRBC Chairman Mr. Edwin Puni with TKO Boxing Promotions President in America last year.
 

09 May, 2012
FIJI BOXERS NEED HELP TO GET TO SAMOA FOR PACIFIC RIM BOXING CHAMPIONSHIP

The plight of Fijian boxers to take part in the inaugural Pacific Rim Boxing Championship (PRBC) hits another hurdle by failing to secure sponsorship, three weeks away from the first leg in Samoa.

Fijian boxers Johnny Singh and Junior Naliva who are to represent Fiji are based in Nadi and Ba, both were affected by the recent floods.

Team manager and Fiji promoter Abdul Khan said, "Although both were affected by the floods, the boys are determined to represent Fiji."

"It was hard to find a place to train but we're finding it harder to secure sponsorship. All the businesses in Nadi and in the Western area where the boxers are from we've approached have been affected by the flooding."

PRBC Chairman, Edwin Puni has put out a special appeal to Fiji and Fijians abroad to help.

Mr. Puni said, "Fiji has a proud history in boxing. They've proven it with rugby sevens that teams from the Pacific can be world champions given the opportunity to compete regularly in international tournaments."

The Pacific Rim Boxing Championship was formed last year in Apia to provide the much needed regional tournaments as part of reviving boxing in the Pacific.

Potential sponsors and donors can contact Mr. Abdul Khan directly on (+679) 925-4263 or Mr. Edwin Puni by email [email protected] for more information.

Team Fiji hopes to depart Tuesday 29th May for Apia.
 

Photo - Team manager and Fiji promoter Mr. Abdul Khan in Samoa attending PRBC meeting last year.
 

06 May, 2012
IONATANA PULA RETIRES TO THE POSITION OF TEAM SAMOA ASSISTANT TRAINER

The appointment of Samoa amateur gold medalist and former Samoa professional champion Palaialii Ionatana Puna as assistant trainer brings a lot of ring knowledge and experience to the Team Samoa training camp who have set their sight on dominating the regional professional boxing showdown with Pacific power houses Fiji and Tahiti.

PRBC Samoa Promoter Tuilagi Saipele Esera said, “Being awarded the honours to host the inaugural Pacific Rim Boxing Championship in Apia on Thursday 31st May 2012 certainly gives Team Samoa a home advantage.”

According to Tuilagi, “After Pula’s fight last December we advised him to retire; he has been in the ring far too long. With the unfortunate death of Junior Seau last week, it brings home the message for sports organizations and administrators to look after the safety and welfare of athletes and sports people.”

The start of the Pacific Rim Boxing championship in Apia later this month also sees the graduation of boxers who have been competing at the local Samoa Pro Am Fights to represent Samoa in the regional tournament.

Team Samoa for the upcoming PRBC includes heavyweight Gogosina Ulutoa of Samatau and Salamumu, cruiserweight Saipeti Muga Asiata of Vaiusu and Safotu and Francis Mamoe of Vaiusu and Toamua. Also selected is Iosia Nanai of Falelatai and Savaia in Lefaga in the super middleweight division, and in the welterweight is Tony Iapesa of Alamagoto and Michael Fonoti of Satalo Falealili and Manunu.

The PRBC program of 6 professional bouts between Samoa and the visiting Team Fiji, Team Tahiti and Team American Samoa also includes 6 amateur cards which will include the Prime Ministers Cup to be defended by Samoa selection against American Samoa selection; also Island of Origin bouts between a Savaii selection and a Upolu selection.

Tuilagi said, “It’s the best pro am card under one roof for awhile in Samoa and we’re expecting a capacity crowd this year with the Samoa 50th Independence celebration; especially with Samoans from around the world making a pilgrimage home.”

Tickets including corporate tables will be on sale this week.

Photo 1 - Ionatana Pula in action in Auckland, New Zealand.
 

Photo 2 - Pacific Rim Boxing Championship.
 

06 May, 2012
TEAM SAMOA HEAD TRAINER MOURNS DEATH OF JUNIOR SEAU

Team Samoa head trainer Richard Brown is mourning the death of fellow team mate, Junior Seau, Samoan former star linebacker who played 13 of his 20 NFL seasons with the San Diego Chargers.

PRBC Chairman Edwin Puni said, “As soon as I heard the news about Seau, I called Richard in Samoa.”

Mr. Brown, who made the transition from former professional NFL player to being conditioning and fitness trainer for Manu Samoa then Toa Samoa, is currently head trainer for Team Samoa.

Mr. Puni said, “When I finally spoke with Mr. Brown, he was deeply affected and wished he could have done something to reach out to Seau. He told me that he spoke with Seau’s brother some time back and told him to tell Junior to come spend some time in Samoa.”

In their phone conversation Mr. Brown said, “As professional NFL players, you take a lot of hits on the field; then there’s post career depression that can hit you any time. Returning to Samoa with my family and staying active with sports development like boxing has been a blessing and good distraction for me.”

Richard Brown who played linebacker for 9 seasons took his versatility from the Los Angeles Rams to the San Diego charges in 1990 with Junior Seau as first round draft choice.

Photo 1 - PRBC Chairman Mr. Edwin Puni, boxer Warren Fuiava and head trainer Richard Brown after KO'ing Australian Daniel Baff in Auckland.
 

Photo 2 - Pacific Rim Boxing Championship.
 

28 April, 2012
SAMOA GETS THE HONOURS TO HOST THE INAUGURAL PACIFIC RIM BOXING CHAMPIONSHIP

Samoa has been given the honors to host the inaugural Pacific Rim Boxing Championship in Apia on Thursday 31st May 2012 as part of the upcoming Samoa 50th Independence celebration following a decision to postpone the New Zealand leg of the regional tournament to later this year.

PRBC chairman Edwin Puni said, “New Zealand was to host the first leg in April and Samoa in December. But the decision to change is an acknowledgment of Samoa’s contribution to international boxing and it is fitting that Samoa is given the honours of hosting the inaugural tournament to coincide with their 50th Independence celebration program.

The six international PRBC professional bouts will feature heavyweight Gogosina Ulutoa of Samoa go toe to toe with hard man Temoo Temaititahio of Tahiti. In the cruiserweight division, Saipeti Muga Asiata of Samoa will fight American Samoa sensation Alapati Aasa, while up and coming Francis Mamoe of Samoa will take on former Samoa Olympian Farani Tavui.

Iosia Nanai of Samoa will take on Savenaca Navila of Fiji in the super middleweight division. In the welterweight division will see a rematch between Tony Iapesa of Samoa who lost to Tinitua Neagle of Tahiti in their first encounter last November; while Michael Fonoti of Samoa will have to be on top of his game to match Johnny Singh of Fiji.

The Pacific Rim Boxing Championship was formed last year in Apia by promotion company Event Polynesia in association with Pacific boxing promoters and officials to provide the much needed regional tournament.

Photo 1 - Pacific Rim Boxing Championship.
 

Photo 2 - Tahiti heavyweight Temoo Temaititahio.
 

25 March, 2012
VAITELE SOI KEEPS HIS MOTHER’S HOPE ALIVE

Vaitele Soi’s win on Friday night at the Auckland Boxing Association stadium, although unconvincing, is another win closer to realizing his mother Sulufaiga’s dream - a decent home and a bread earner for the family.

The majority win after six rounds against New Zealand heavyweight slugger Junior Iakopo in front of a full house which included David Higgins and Dean Lonergan of Duco Events takes Soi’s professional record to an impressive 20 wins from 20 fights, 14 by way of knock out; 13 of the fights in NZ.

Vaitele’s father who passed away in 2003, never saw his son fight as a professional boxer; nor contemplated that his son is one fight away from being a house hold name in Samoa and New Zealand. That opportunity will come if Vaitele Soi gets a call from Higgins and Lonergan in the next week or two to be on the Shane Cameron and Monte Barrett card in May.

In an interview with the Samoa Observer in January 2010 on the evening before Vaitele’s move to fight out of New Zealand, Sulufaiga, born to a Taga mother and Vailele father said, “The first time I saw my son with boxing gloves walking to the ring, I just couldn’t stop crying, and then I couldn’t watch him in the ring.”

In 2005, Vaitele’s step-father became a key part and path to Vaitele’s boxing career until last year, when Sulufaiga had to do it alone again as a single parent.

Early this month, Soi’s management and promoter Event Polynesia went public selling corporate table seats to the fight to fund Vaitele’s preparation and fight expenses after failing to secure sponsorship.

Pa’u Fereti Puni, managing director of Event Polynesia chuckled when he said, “I guess we have to be immune to being turned down especially after five years of soliciting sponsors and fundraising to get talented boxers from Samoa to participate in the much need tournaments in New Zealand and overseas. It doesn’t help with the world still in recession.”

In a remarkable twist, what was lacking in financial backing certainly made up with support on fight night when Samoa cabinet minister Le Mamea Ropati Mualia and Samoa Consulate General, Faolotoi Reupena Pogi joined New Zealand First leader Vaovasamanaia Winston Peters and New Zealand Member of Parliament Leaufa’amulia Asenati Lole-Taylor to cheer on Soi.

According to Pa’u, “Vaitele had to fight a heavyweight on Friday night because there is no cruiserweight left in New Zealand to fight Soi. We were hoping that his last fight was for the New Zealand cruiserweight title but couldn’t secure an opponent. That leaves just Shane Cameron for a future show down. At the moment, Soi is ready to take on Australia’s top cruiserweights.”

Pa’u said, “Vaitele has bragging rights to beating some of New Zealand’s finest fighters like kickboxing legend Shane “Chopper” Chapman and former WBO African champ and current NZNBF cruiserweight champion Mohamed Azzaoui.”

Today Sulufaiga no longer cries nor turns away, only the usual prayer that His will be done. One thing is for sure, Vaitele knows the meaning of his mother’s name and if things don’t go well, he will find solace there.

Photo 1 - Vaitele Soi with Samoa cabinet minister Le Mamea Ropati Mualia ma New Zealand First leader Winston Peters.
 

Photo 2 - Dean Lonergan and David Higgins of Duco Events supporting Vaitele Soi on fight night.
 

18 November, 2011
VAITELE SOI CONTINUES KNOCK OUT PERFORMANCE

Samoa cruiserweight champion Satiamaalii Vaitele Soi delivered another knock out performance in the main event of the Glozier Promotion in Auckland on Friday night. The 54 seconds TKO win by Soi in the first round has now taken his professional record to 19 fights, 19 wins with 14 wins by way of knock out.

Soi is part of the Samoan professional boxing team currently training in Auckland thanks to Dr Anthony Lovat, founder and managing director on behalf of OPRO who donated £5,000
(equivalent of $8,987.76 NZD) to help get the Samoan team to New Zealand.

Dr Lovat was made aware of Team Samoa’s plight during a recent meeting with Lauaki Freddie Tuilagi who acts as manager for Manu Samoa wing Alesana Tuilagi and Engalnd centre Manusamoa Tuilagi. Dr Lovat was keen to pay both Alesana's and Manu's rugby world cup fines but, as these had already been settled, OPRO made the donation to the Samoa professional boxing development being supported by the Tuilagi brothers.

Mr. Pa’u Edwin Puni of boxing company Event Polynesia confirms, “The donation from OPRO has enabled Soi, four other Samoan boxers and three Samoan trainers to take part in a special training program in Auckland this week.”

Next week, Samoan boxers Faimasasa Tavui, Tony Iapesa and Michael Fonoti and trainers Asiata Napoleon Stanley and Ofisa Vili will travel to Tahiti to take part in the Polynesia Professional Boxing League pro-am promotion on Friday 25th November, while boxer Oli Filimaua and trainer Leapai Richard Brown heads to Fiji to participate in the Wild West Boxing Promotion on
Saturday 26th November.

Team Samoa returns to Apia in time for the Samoa Pro Am fights on Thursday 1st December which will feature a Fiji vs Samoa match up.

Following Soi’s win, he is now in line to fight New Zealand number two Muyoyo Mensah in a WBO Asia Pacific showdown in March next year.

Photo 1 - Satiamaalii Vaitele Soi with Team Samoa after his win in Auckland.
 

Photo 2 - Manu Samoa winger Alesana Tuilagi's OPRO RWC 2011 mouthguard.
 

13 July, 2011
WARREN FUIAVA WINS IN CHINA

Warren Fuiava has arrived back in Samoa via Auckland after winning a six rounds light heavyweight contest by unanimous decision against Lefoumbou Ngoma of the Democratic Republic of Congo in China.

The farmer boy from Fa’ala Palauli and Lalomalava villages in the big island of Savaii in Samoa is quickly building a fan base in New Zealand and recently in China with an impressive performance viewed by 14 million in China on free to air television.

Fuiava’s journey from Fa’ala in Samoa to Humili in China involved a marathon of four connecting flights from Samoa via Auckland, Hong Kong, Chendu and Xichang airports in China, a total of twenty two hours on the plane plus four hours drive by bus to reach Humili.

According to respected match maker John Glozier, “There’s a lot of interest in China to see Fuiava back, possibly a title fight before the end of this year.”

Lawrence Tauasa who is currently training and fighting out of Hong Kong fought on the same card but was unable to repeat Fuiava’s winning performance. Tauasa lost to Chauncy Welliver of America by KO in the fourth round of a 12 rounds heavyweight bout.

Fuiava is the second professional boxer from the Event Polynesia stable to impressive promoters and boxing fans in China in the last twelve months. Last year, Pele Faumui also won by unanimous decision against local boxer Mourigen Bater in a six rounds middleweight contest.

Managing Director of Event Polynesia, Pa’u Fereti Puni, however is disappointed that two of the most exciting prospect fighters in New Zealand are left out of the upcoming David Tua verses Monte Barrett card.

According to Puni, “SKY cannot afford to rely on the main event to carry the promotion. Having a good undercard is your safety net.”

“We were contacted by SKY in June for Warren Fuiava to fight Daniel McKinnon. Later we were informed Daniel McKinnon will be fighting Maselino Masoe instead.”

“Vaitele Soi and Warren Fuiava are available and ready to fight anyone,” said Puni.

Vaitele Soi is now ranked number three in the New Zealand cruiserweight division after winning the 2011 Last Man Standing tournament in May, beating former WBO African title holder Mohammed Azzaoui in one of the semi finals and laid claim to beating one of New Zealand’s finest fighters - kickboxing legend Shane “Chopper” Chapman in the final.

Soi is currently in Auckland sparring Shane Cameron ahead of Cameron’s title challenge in the week-end for the Commonwealth title currently held by Dominic Vea of Australia.

Fuiava is the current Samoa Light Heavyweight champion with an unblemished professional record of 14 fights, 14 wins, 4 by way of knock out. His last KO performance was in June with a fifth-round knockout of Anthony Mundine-camp prospect Daniel Baff on the Sonny Bill William’s ‘Clash for Canterbury’ in Auckland.

PHOTOS:

[1] Warren Fuiava after winning in China.

[2] Lawrence Tauasa, Warren Fuiava and Event Polynesia head trainer Leapai Richard Brown.
 

24 June, 2011
WARREN FUIAVA CONTINUES UNDEFEATED RECORD

Samoa’s light heavyweight champion Warren Fuiava continues to be undefeated with a fifth-round knockout of Anthony Mundine-camp prospect Daniel Baff on the recent Sonny Bill William ‘Clash For Canterbury’ in Auckland; taking his professional record to 13 undefeated fights, 4 by way of knockout.

According to the New Zealand Herald, “Spectators not caught up in wanting Williams (SBW) to be the next Ali would have been well satisfied with their evening's entertainment given the quality of the Fuiava vs Baff” showdown.

Baff came to the fight with an impressive professional record of 14 fights, 12 wins, 10 by way of KOs. His next fight against Blake Caparello for the Australian Light Heavyweight title got cancelled after his surprise loss to Fuiava. Caparello in his warm up fight to prepare for the title shot KOed former Samoa light heavyweight champion Togasilimai Letoa in the first round in Australia.

The Aussie ring announcer on the SBW ‘Clash For Canterbury’ promotion can be forgiven for referring to Fuiava as “New Zealand’s very own” when announcing the winner for two reasons.

Firstly, no local Samoan boxer had ever KOed an Australian professional boxer, not ever won against an Australian professional opponent, especially in Australia.

Secondly, the sponsors on Team Fuiava’s gear Agility, Carisbrook NZ, Enterprise Motor Group, Health Star Pacific, Martin Hautus, EMAYSE and Vili’s Boxing Gym are all New Zealand businesses with the exception of JP Fitness where Fuiava trains in Samoa.

According to Pa’u Fereti Puni of Fuiava’s management, “If New Zealand is helping our local boxers then there is no reason why they cannot take some of the credit.”

Fuiava had impressed the New Zealand boxing fraternity with his style and ability since he started fighting in New Zealand last year. His knock out performance on the televised Mundine-William show has now got the attention of the Australian boxing scene.

Pa’u confirmed there was an offer for Warren to fight in Australia next month. Instead Fuiava is confirmed to be fighting in China on the 28th June against Lefoumbou Ngoma of the Democratic Republic of Gongo in a six round contest.

According to Pa’u, “Samoa continues to deliver good amateur boxers. But many have not had the opportunity to forge a successful professional career if any. The lack of tournaments and financial packing is the obvious reasons.”

Last month, Samoa cruiserweight champion Vaitele Soi took the Last Man Standing 2011 title in Auckland. Soi not only laid claim to beating one of New Zealand’s finest fighters - kickboxing legend Shane “Chopper” Chapman but is now ranked # 3 in New Zealand after Muyoyo Mensah (WBO # 12) and Shane Cameron.

PHOTOS:

[1] Anthony Mundine camp prospect Daniel Baff is floored by Warren Fuiava.

[2] (R-L) Warren Fuiava with Anthony Mundine and Rosa Puni of Event Polynesia management.
 

13 June, 2011
BOXING IN SAMOA WILL COME ALIVE IF DONE PROPERLY

Managing Director of Event Polynesia, Pa’u Fereti Puni, is adamant that boxing in Samoa will come alive if done properly.

If the close to full capacity at Faleata Gym # 1 during the Samoa Independence Pro Am Fights is to go by, then boxing in Samoa has certainly made a come back.

Especially with a strong attendance by the business community led by champions of Samoan sports Tupua Fred Wetzell, Lealiie’e Rudy Ott, Francis Craig, Tuatagaloa Joe Annandale and Alaiasa Schwartz Hunt joined by local companies Pacific Aluminum, British American Tobacco, PacificEzy Money Transfer, Latu Law and KEW Consultants.

However Pa’u cautions that the perception by many that boxing promotion in Samoa is a money making business is far from the truth.

“It’s funny how after the boxing promotion, the only thing people say is how full the event was instead of commenting on how the tournament and local boxers have developed over the years. All they were thinking about is how much money was made on the night,” said Pa’u.

The truth is, without the support of Government through TAB funding, SSFA and media support by TV3, TV1, Radio 2AP and Samoa Observer in the last four years, the SPAF tournaments would not have been viable.

And without sponsorship by local businesses like Hennie’s Sports Bar & Motel and Motor 1 Samoa, also the kind donations from Samoa Commercial Bank, Samoa Builders Supplies & ACE Hardware, Maota Samoa and South Seas Pictures, Komiti o le Faleula every year, and individuals like Papalii Morris Scanlan, Toleafoa Elon Betham, La’auli Alan Grey, even reverend ministers there would not have been any professional boxing development as you see it today.

The recent Sagaga Le Falefa electoral petition filed against Tuisa Tasi Patea brought to light a glimpse of the extent of the work behind the scene resulting in the current resurgence of professional boxing in Samoa.

Event Polynesia however can take some comfort from the Rachael Hunter shampoo TV commercial, “It’s not going to happen over night, but it will happen.” That is so true with the results to date.

• The growing popularity of the Samoa Pro Am Fights (SPAF) established four years ago by Event Polynesia in conjunction with South Pacific Professional Boxing Incorporated (SPBI) and Samoa Amateur Boxing Association (SABA) now features the PM’s Cup during the Independence promotion while the December SPAF includes the Honorary Awards presentation for service to boxing.

• The establishment in April of a High Performance Academy (HPA) for professional boxing in Samoa. But without its own facility, the training program with twenty two (22) professional boxers is only made possible though the kind assistance of JP Fitness.

• Collaboration with the New Zealand boxing fraternity has enabled Event Polynesia to stage promotions in New Zealand; also enabling local boxers to train and fight out of New Zealand in the last three years. This is a much needed step for local professional boxers to be ‘culturelised’ overseas and be mentored in the business side of boxing. But being non New Zealand residents, they have to return to Samoa after every fight which is a very costly exercise.

• Successful negotiations with New Zealand promoters have opened the door for local boxers to fight on major cards being televised internationally like the David Tua vs. Demetrius King promotion, the New Zealand 2011 Last Man Standing promotion and the recent Sonny Bill William (SBW) and Anthony Mundine promotion. Team Samoa’s record so far this year is eight (8) fights, seven (7) wins and one (1) draw. Of the seven (7) wins, four (4) are by way of KO.

• Successful inclusion of Samoan professional boxers to participate in tournaments in China, the centre of world boxing in the Asia Pacific region, with Samoan Middleweight champion Pele Faumui being the first last year, winning by unanimous decision.

• Samoan champion Vaitele Soi now ranked number three (3) in New Zealand in the cruiserweight division behind Muyoyo Mensah (WBO # 12) and Shane Cameron. On Sunday, Samoan Light Heavyweight champion Warren Fuiava claimed the best fight of the night after knocking out Australian title contender Daniel Baff in the fifth (5) round on the SBW and Mundine promotion.

• Negotiations are underway to see the establishment of a Team Samoa camp in Las Vegas later this year to enable one or two more local professional fighters to join Leti who is trained by one of America’s best trainer, Mr. Kenny Adams. Leti’s professional record is five fights, winning all by KO.

“This year’s annual challenge for the Prime Minister’s Cup was a heated fixture with Samoa taking back the cup from last year’s winner American Samoa. The inclusion of the SPAF event as part of the official Samoa Independence program starting last year is a real boost to the development of the sport in both Samoa.”

Deputy Prime Minister Fonotoe Nuafesili Lauofo presented the cup on behalf of the PM.

As the Samoan saying goes, “E ta’aalo lava tama a o le uso.” Such was the spirit of sportsmanship emulated with the two amateur teams marching side by side the following morning together with all the professional boxers who fought each other the night before, and officials during the march pass at Tiafau.

“It was good to see Hon. Tolofuaivalelei Leiataua, co-chair of the Samoa Independence Committee, attending with fellow Members of Parliament to witness the potential of the SPAF tournament as a major sport fixture for Samoa’s 50th Independence celebration,” said Pa’u.

The addition of Government organizations that used the SPAF event to promote their services to the community was another great addition. Other Samoa sports bodies can also take a leaf out of the support of Rugby League Samoa and Football Federation Samoa to boxing on the fight night.

“With cold Vailima draught running out before the Leti verses Waru main event, it sure was a affirmation of the interest in corporate hospitality now added to the boxing entertainment, something that is very popular overseas.

According to Pa’u, “Next year’s Independence promotion is the right time to bring a World Boxing Organisation (WBO) regional title fight back to Samoa. That time, one of the local professional boxers will be ready to take that belt.”

PHOTOS:

[1] (L-R) Deputy Prime Minister with boxers Jamie Waru and Leti Emelio Leti, Hon. Tolofuaivalelei Leiataua and Hon. Sooalo Meni.
 

13 May, 2011
KNOCK OUT WIN BY SAMOAN CHAMPION VAITELE SOI

Samoan cruiserweight champion Vaitele Soi returned home this week after winning the ‘Last Man Standing’ an all professional 8 man knockout tournament in Auckland on Saturday, walking away with the $10,000 prize money.

Soi also laid claim to beating one of New Zealand’s finest fighters - kickboxing legend Shane “Chopper” Chapman in the final as reported on NZFighter website.

“Starting off by working Chapman's body into a first-round introduction to the canvas, Soi caught fire in the second, hitting upstairs and down, and putting Chapman back on the ground. Chopper wasn't liable to take any of this lying down, and he came back with an overhand right that set the Samoan champion's teeth a-rattling.”

“Standing strong in the face of some brutal assaults, Soi broke the mold and punched Chapman into the ropes” with the referee stopping the fight in the third round.

Draw from the hat saw Soi going toe to toe with southpaw Francis Pratsch in one of the quarter finals. Pratsch dominated both first and second rounds landing a number of good punches until Soi got his rhythm in the third round, knocking out Pratsch to advance to the semifinals.

The match up saw Soi going up against former World Boxing Organisation (WBO) African title holder Mohamed Azzaoui. The experienced Azzaoui originally from Algeria with thirty three professional bouts laid claim to beating a string of Samoan contenders Junior Pati, Bob Gasio, Seiaute Mailata, Amosa Zinc, Lighting Lupe, Alapati Kitiona and Martin Opetaia over the years.

Soi took the fight to Azzaoui, winning by a split decision in the toughest of the two semi finals.

The 2010 Last Man Standing champion Shane ‘Chopper’ Chapman won his earlier bouts with ease against Samoan boxers Wilhem Schwalger in the quarterfinal and last years finalist Monty Filimaea Fauea in the semi final. Chopper has never been stopped and also laid claim to beating former Samoan boxing champions Niusila Seiuli and Fale Siaoloa.

Soi provided the only knock outs of the 2011 Last Man Standing tournament taking his unblemished professional record to seventeen, winning twelve by KO.

According to NZFighter, “Soi looks to be ripe for a world-class title.”

“Vaitele’s win is affirmations that with the adequate resources to prepare and get our boxers to participate in big international fights, Samoa can deliver boxing world champions,” said Pa’u Fereti Puni of Event Polynesia, the local company that is leading the resurgence of professional boxing in Samoa and development of local boxers.

“The win should also silenced local critics about the legitimacy of the Soi verses Azzaoui fight that was promoted by Event Polynesia to take place in Samoa in September 2009. A replacement opponent was called in at the last minute when Azzaoui was declared unwell a few days before the fight.”

Currently in Samoa to visit his family is another Samoan KO specialist Leti Leti. Event Polynesia, Leti’s co-management, has confirmed that there is a possibility of Leti fighting on the Samoa Independence Pro Am Fights on Tuesday 31st May at Faleata Gym 1.

The upcoming boxing fixture will feature the sixteen local professional boxers signed up last month by Event Polynesia.

PHOTOS:

[1] (L-R) Ofisa Vili, Edwin Puni, Vaitele Soi and Richard Brown of Team Soi.

[2] (L-R) Vaitele Soi with members of his management Pa’u Fereti Puni, Vaiolo Lapa Leatio’o, Tuilagi Saipele Esera and Savea Al Harrington Lavea.
 

02 May, 2011
VAITELE SOI THE LAST MAN STANDING

Vaitele Soi heads to New Zealand this week to take part in the ‘Last Man Standing’ an all professional 8 man knockout tournament fighting for $10,000 on Saturday 7 May in Auckland.

While the prize money is a huge incentive, the real motivation for Vaitele is getting the opportunity to show that he is a better fighter then his last performance on the Tua verses King card in March.

Vaitele said, “I know I let a lot of people down in my last fight especially my boxing management and my family. I’m just happy that I’m given this chance to fight the top New Zealand boxers in my division to redeem myself.”

The tournament format sees Vaitele fighting in a quarterfinal three rounds by three minutes elimination bout. If successful he will move to a semi final elimination bout also three by three.

Vaitele with an undefeated professional record of fourteen fights, winning ten by KO, is favored to go toe to toe in the final with either Mohamed Azzaoui former WBO African champion, or New Zealand kickboxer champion Shane ‘Choppa’ Chapman, or heavy hitter Jason Barnett from USA.

The upcoming fight in New Zealand will certainly test Vaitele according to Teleiai Edwin Puni, managing director of Event Polynesia (EP), a local promotion company that is leading the development of professional boxing in Samoa.

Teleiai said, “Our top local professional boxers need to participate more in these big fights overseas. The recent Tua fight was the first big promotion our local boxers ever fought on, and it showed they needed a lot of adjusting.”

“The setting up of our High Performance Academy (HPA) last month here in Samoa is our vote of confidence that EP can build champion professional fighters here in Samoa. To develop our local boxers, we need more tournaments both locally and internationally.”

The upcoming Samoa Independence Pro Am fights on Tuesday 31st May will feature the sixteen professional boxers signed up by Event Polynesia last month. The other signings by Event Polynesia includes Samoa’s cruiserweight champion Vaitele Soi, light heavyweight champion Warren Fuiava, middleweight champion Pele Faumui, welterweight champion Oli Filimaua and Samoan sensation Leti Leti.

“Samoa has the unique opportunity to deliver the next big fight names in boxing from down under after David Tua and Shane Cameron of New Zealand, also Anthony Mundine and Danny Green of Australia,” according to Teleiai.

Currently in Samoa to visit his family is Leti Leti who at present is training and fighting out of Las Vegas. Event Polynesia, Leti’s management, has confirmed that there is a possibility of Leti fighting on the upcoming Samoa Independence promotion with an overseas opponent before returning to America.

PHOTOS:

[1] (L-R) Pele Faumui, Vaitele Soi, Leti Leti and Warren Fuiava on the Tua vs King Card.
 

19 March, 2011
LOCAL SAMOAN BOXERS ON THE TUA CARD DEDICATE FIGHT

The five local Samoan boxers on the David Tua card in Auckland tonight will be dedicating their fight to a special lady when they step into the ring by wearing the letters RIP PP on their arms; which stands for “rest in peace Puataunofo Puni.”

The gesture according to Leapai Ricky Brown, head of the coaching team, is in memory of Managing Director Teleiai Edwin Puni’s mother who was buried last week in Apia.

Leapai said, “Puataunofo’s Lalovaea residence is the home of the resurgence of professional boxing in Samoa. Five years to this month we now have Leti Leti with a five years contract fighting out of Las Vegas; we have Vaitele Soi, Warren Fuiava, Pele Faumui and Oli Filimaua now fighting out of Auckland.”

Vaitele Soi of Vailele, Taga and Vaovai Falealii in a cruiserweight rematch bout of six rounds with Oscar Siale is expected to be an all guts and blood encounter.

Warren Fuiava who hails from Fa’ala Palauli and Lalomalava is fighting former Samoa amateur gold medalist and professional champ Niusila Seiuli now based in New Zealand in a six rounds light heavyweight bout.

Pele Faumui of Iva and Lalomalava will be fighting one division up in a super middleweight four rounder against Gunner Jackson.

Leti Leti of Faleapuna, Lalomauga, Salimu Fagaloa and Lano is also fighting a division up in a rematch with Paz Viejo.

Oli Filimaua of Fa’ala Palauli and Fagalii will be fighting Josh Maheno after New Zealand’s welterweight number one Steve Heremaia pulled out.

“Tonight (Tua vs King) is the biggest fight of their professional career and we are dedicating it to a special women that is part of Samoa’s boxing history. The boys have trained well since arriving in Auckland last month and we’re confident of a good performance.”

PHOTOS:

[1] (Front L-R) Warren, Oli, Vaitele, Pele, (Back L-R) Leapai Ricky Brown, Teleiai Edwin Puni and Jenkins Tesese.
 

07 February, 2011
LOCAL SAMOAN BOXERS ON THE DAVID TUA FIGHT CARD

The launch on Wednesday of the David Tua 19th March fight was nowhere near the hype of Tua’s last showing in New Zealand against Shane Cameron; promoted then by Duco as the Fight of the Century.

Instead the event was a coming of age of professional boxing in New Zealand, and a revelation to the new shakers of the boxing business in New Zealand and the region.

Tagged as Tua’s Backyard Brawl, David was still the attraction. But there was no sign of the show biz buildup like Tua’s past fights. Instead, facing the media was Tuigamala Va’aiga Tuigamala, the new kid on the block as the promoter.

Attending was Lance Revill, President of the New Zealand Professional Boxing Association, Tui Gallagher President of Auckland Boxing Association, former WBA Super middleweight champion Maselino Masoe, Alex Su’a former NZ and Australasian Heavyweight Champion, Monty Betham (JR) boxing convert and former league star.

Most notable was the undercard match up resembling a Manu Samoa verses All Blacks international fixture in all eight bouts, with four local Samoan professional boxers of the Event Polynesia stable.

Vaitele Soi, Samoa cruiserweight champion, a rematch with Oscar Siale in what is expected to be an all blood and guts fight; with Oscar our to revenge a point loss to Vaitele in January last year.

Warren Fuiava, Samoa light heavyweight champion, against the explosive Daniel McKinnon. Is Warren the next Samoan champion to fall victim like Niusila Seiuli, Fale Siaoloa and Ioane Talamago to McKinnon’s prowess?

Pele Faumui, Samoa middleweight champion takes on a much heavier Gunnar Jackson in the super middle division.

Leti Leti, Samoa gold medalist in the amateurs, returns from Las Vegas to fight Ray Musson. Ray KOed Ionatana Pula, former Samoa welterweight champion, in their last outing in New Zealand after losing to Pula by points in an earlier encounter.

Teleiai Edwin Puni, managing director of Event Polynesia said, “To fight on a Tua card is a dream comes true for any upcoming boxer, but to have four local Samoan boxers on the same card is a milestone for Samoa boxing.”

Tuilagi Saipele of the Event Polynesia office in Samoa confirmed that Vaitele, Warren, Pele, to be accompanied by Oli Filimaua, Samoa welterweight champion will be departing for New Zealand on Tuesday.

According to Tuilagi, “The boys have been training at JP Fitness over the last two weeks in anticipation of being selected. This week they started sparring at Vaiusu under the supervision of Asiata Leon Stanley, Vice President of the SPBI. Training will step up for the next four weeks when they get to Auckland, including sparring with Maselino and David.”

Jenkins Tesese of the Event Polynesia office in New Zealand said, “Right now we are seeking sponsorship to help pay for the boxers visa’s, airfares, living expenses while in New Zealand and training expenses. Being non New Zealand residents makes it a very expensive exercise.”

“Those wanting to find out how they can assist with the Team Samoa preparations can contact us by email: [email protected],” said Jenkins.

A low key sendoff for the local boxers is scheduled for Monday 10am at SamoaTel headquarters to be attended by the boxing fraternity.

PHOTOS:

[1] Jenkins Tesese, Savea Al Harrington Lavea and Tuilagi Saipele Esera of Event Polynesia with David Tua and Inga Tuigamala.
 

29 November, 2010
AWESOME OLI FILIMAUA WINS BY TKO

Oli Filimaua’s debut in New Zealand was long awaited by Samoan boxing fans. It was nothing less than awesome and impressive. Vili’s Gym Boxing Promotion in the past weekend gave Filimaua his greatest opportunity to shine and showcase his boxing skills and style in front of a huge mixed South Auckland crowd.

The welterweight champion from the villages of Fa’ala Palauli and Fagali’i in Samoa has signed a contract with Event Polynesia Boxing, to train in New Zealand for his professional career. His Manager Rosa Tomasi-Puni of Event Polynesia said that “ given the chance to Samoan professional boxers enough time to train in New Zealand prior to their respective bouts, now proved to be a worthy call. Our Samoan boxers now have the experience to encounter and stand toe to toe with any boxers in New Zealand and Australia.”

Filimaua came out firing heavy body shots to the ribs of Ryan Tauaki of New Zealand who was also undefeated in his rise to the welterweight division. It was well noted in the early round that Filimaua’s movements and power was devastating for the Tongan New Zealander Tauaki. I have also observed with great admiration the matured and positive attitude of Filimaua as he worked the body and going upstairs to the head when Tauaki dropped his hands. This is a true sign of maturity as he displayed discipline and patience. Just as one of the greatest boxing trainer of all time De Angelo Dundee said..quote “ keep working and throw bunches don’t rush and stick to the game plan, don’t be frustrated, be patient and the knockout will come.”

Tauaki on the other hand was very good in defense and also had his moments of hope, but it wasn’t enough to keep Filimaua away as he moved forward all the time and taking the fight to him. Filimaua’s patience paid-off when Tauaki had a standing eight count in the dying seconds of the third round of the bout scheduled for 4. It was a great contest and testing time for Filimaua and he did the job. His outstanding work rate with punches thrown and landed finally took its toll on Tauaki. He couldn’t standup to answer the bell for the fourth and final round.

For Filimaua, it was a marvelous milestone for the first time away from home.

Another outstanding performance of the night was Warren Fuiava of Fa’ala Palauli and Lalomalava from the big Island of Savai’i in Samoa, and the tough kid Joshua Tai from one of New Zealand’s well-known boxing families.This was a contest in the light heavyweight division. All three judges unanimously awarded the victory to Fuiava after 4 rounds of boxing in the main event of the evening.

Warren Fuiava is also managed by Event Polynesia and is now schedule for a title fight for the vacant light heavyweight championship belt with one of Samoa’s number one Madman Faimasasa Tavu’i in the final showdown of 2010 hosted by Event Polynesia @ the South Pacific Gymnasium Tuana’imato in Apia next month on December 14th.

In the mean time, another Samoan Star undefeated in the welter weight division Pele Faumui, who is also managed by Event Polynesia will be traveling to fight in China at the end of this month.

Managing Director of Event Polynesia Mr Teleia’i Pa’u Edwin Puni said that ” Leti Leti who is co-managed by Event Polynesia and signed over to TKO Promotions in Las Vegas, is training well for his first fight in the United States late next month or early next year.”

Mr. Puni also expressed great appreciation for the assistance and sponsorship rendered by local and international companies for putting their trust in the development of boxing in Samoa and New Zealand, with the likes of Mr. Geoff Bonner of CARISBROOK New Zealand, Mr. Doug Dennett of Agility Logistics, the Government of Samoa and other local companies that are partners of Event Polynesia.

PHOTOS:

[1] Warren Fuiava and Oli Filimaua with Carisbrook New Zealand Managing Director Geoff Bonner (middle).

[2] Pele, Vaitele, Jenkins, Geoff, Savea, Warren and Oli on fight night.

[3] Pele Faumui (middleweight), Oli Filimaua (welterweight) and Warren Fuiava (lightheavyweight).
 

05 May, 2010
PELE FAUMUI SIGNED BOXING CONTRACT TO FIGHT IN NEW ZEALAND
Source: eventpolynesia.com

Event Polynesia has announced the signing of a three year contract by Pele Faumui to fight in New Zealand in the middleweight division. Pele had represented Samoa in the South Pacific Games and Oceania amateur boxing tournaments before turning professional in January 2009.

Mr. Tuilagi Saipele Esera of Event Polynesia said, “Pele is the third professional boxer that came through the Samoa Pro Am Fights being held in Apia who have signed a contract to fight out of New Zealand.”

The other two who have been fighting in New Zealand for five months now are Vaitele Soi fighting in the cruiserweight division and Warren Fuiava fighting in the light heavyweight division.

According to Tuilagi, “Pele is the current Samoa middlweight champion. The only time he will be fighting in Samoa is to defend his title. At this stage there is no credible challenger to the Samoa Middlweight title.”

Pele won his first fight in New Zealand on the 13th April and is now preparing for his second fight on the 22nd May against Maori boxer Jamie Waru at Tauranga.

Tuilagi reflected on the pathway that was established over three years ago by their company Event Polynesia to provide boxers from Samoa and the Pacific the opportunity to get exposure in New Zealand and overseas.

Regarding boxing in Samoa, Event Polynesia works closely with the Samoa Amateur Boxing Association and the South Pacific Boxing Inc. the sanctioning body for professional boxing in staging the quarterly Samoa Pro Am Fights at the Tuanaimato sport facility.

Pele is from the villages of Lalomalava and Vaiafai in Iva. He has a professional record of six fights, his only loss was on debut to Ghana boxer Joseph Kwadjo who recently won the IBF Australasia title.

Boxers Pele Faumui, Vaitele Soi and Warren Fuiava are currently training in Auckland.

Warren has fought five times since fighting in Auckland in January this year and have won all his fights. Vaitele has fought twice winning all his fights as well; his last fight he TKOed Fijian Ben Naqasima after two minutes and ten seconds inside the first round.

The upcoming promotion in Tauranga on the 22 May will feature all three Samoan boxers Pele Faumui, Warren Fuiava and Vaitele Soi and will be screened on Maori TV.

PHOTOS:

[1] Pele Faumui with his trainer Vaelua Fuiava Nofo signing contract with Event Polynesia.

[2] Pele Faumui winning in Auckland on the 23 April 2010.
 

24 February, 2010
BOXING SENSATION LETI LETI SIGNS WITH TKO BOXING PROMOTIONS
Source: eventpolynesia.com
 

Samoa boxing sensation Leti Leti has signed with TKO Boxing Promotions. The announcement was made on Monday by Leti’s Las Vegas based co-manager Cameron Dunkin to coincide with a special media conference in his home country of Samoa on Thursday this week.

Event Polynesia Managing Director and Leti’s Samoa based co-manager, Teleiai Edwin Puni, says this is a great achievement for Samoa where professional boxing is struggling to get commercial backing to fund the much needed professional tournaments.

According to Teleiai, “Leti is currently spending time with his family in Samoa before moving to the United States where he will be based and exposed to a new audience and U.S. television. Leti is going to be a bright light on the international stage and TKO Promotions is the perfect promoter.”

Leti, 22, has an impressive amateur history starting as Samoa Bantam Weight champ from 2003 to 2004 then Samoa Featherweight champ in 2006. 2007 Leti became Samoa Light Welterweight champ and won Samoa a Gold medal in the 2007 Oceania Tournament.

Leti moved to New Zealand later in 2007 and became the New Zealand Welterweight champ the following year as well as 2009 before he made his professional debut last month in Auckland, New Zealand, knocking out Aaron Bartlett in the first round of their January 31 bout.

“Leti is the goods and the hottest prospect to come out of the Samoa - New Zealand region since David Tua,” said Dunkin.

Teleiai also disclosed, “With a win each to Warren Fuiava (light heavyweight) and Vaitele Soi (cruiserweight) in Auckland last month in the New Zealand selection trials, both boxers have claimed the right to represent New Zealand in the upcoming Bloodisloe Cup and have set personal goals to join Leti in Las Vegas in the future.”

Warren Fuiava and Vaitele Soi’s success is a testimony of the pathway set up by Event Polynesia three years to the month in association with South Pacific Boxing Incorporated and the Samoa Amateur Boxing Association to deliver to the world stage more champions like Maselino Masoe, Jimmy Thunder and David Tua.

Teleiai added, “Look out for Afakasi Pele Faumui and Oli Filimaua in the next Samoa Pro Am Fights in Apia scheduled Tuesday 23rd March 2010.

PHOTOS:

[1] (L-R) Leti Leti in Auckland being congratulated by (left to right) former Manu Samoa captain and rugby legend Papaliitele Peter Fatialofa, his father Fainuulua Emelio former Samoa & South Pacific Heavyweight champion and WBO Asia Pacific Heavyweight contender, Lauaki Fred Tuilagi double international for Samoa in rugby and league, and Leapai Ricky Brown ‘The Samoan Bomber 52’ former NFL professional player.

[2] (L-R) (Standing left to right) Ricky Brown, Lauaki Fred Tuilagi, Chauncy Welliver (WBO Asia Pacific Interim Heavyweight Champion), John Glozzier (NZ co-manager), Teleiai Edwin Puni, Sooalo Setu Mua, Papaliitele Peter Fatialofa, Tuilagi Maiava Saipele Esera, (Seated left to right) Rosa Tomasi-Puni, Fainuulua Emelio Leti, Leti Leti and Ale Vena Ale of South Pacific Boxing Inc. after signing of ‘Management Agreement’ in October 2009.

[3] Leti Leti with his father Emelio and Auckland Boxing Association president Ms. Tui Gallagher.
 

24 August, 2009
SAMOAN GOVERNMENT DONATES $5,000 TO PROFESSIONAL BOXING
Source: eventpolynesia.com
 

Approval of $5,000 assistance by Cabinet last week towards the upcoming Samoa Pro-Am Fights (SPAF) in Apia on Tuesday 8th September has the professional boxing fraternity and boxing fans excited.

The grant has been given in support of Samoa local Pro-Boxers and upcoming sensation Vaitele Soi as the main event of the night against former PABA and IPF Pan Pacific champion Mohammed Azzaoui of New Zealand.

Soi who turned professional last year, has a record of six wins out of six fights, five wins by way of KO. His recent win in July in front of a capacity crowd at Faleata Gym 1 was in record time, knocking out his Fijian opponent in twenty five seconds into the first round.

The October promotion will feature veteran Welterweight former champion Ionatana Pula against up and coming Oli Filimaua. Other undercards includes Warren Fuiavailili verses Uale Leota in the Light Heavyweight division and Afakasi Pele Faumui against Tauave Vainuu in the Middleweight decision.

Mr. Tuilagi MS Esera of Event Polynesia Boxing said, “The financial assistance from Government is a huge boost to professional boxing in Samoa.”

“It will ensure we can continue to stage the much needed tournaments for local professional boxers to build their records, and to secure overseas opponents”, according to Mr Esera.

The announcement by Government comes at the same time professional boxing is celebrating another milestone, having its first two Samoan based professional boxers fighting for World Boxing Organisation (WBO) regional title shots in August.

Unfortunately, Seiaute Mailata’s (Samoa cruiserweight champion) challenge for the WBO Oriental Cruiserweight title against Dominic Vea of Australia was unsuccessful earlier in the month.

Dominic Vea is the current title holder after Lawrence Tauasa of Samoa who fought out of Australia lost the title after losing out in the Contender Series 4 TV tournament last year.

Setting the benchmark of professional boxing in Samoa to date now lies with Togasilimai Letoa’s (Samoa light heavyweight champion) taking a shot at the WBO Asia Pacific Interim title against NZ former Olympian and current light heavyweight champion, Soul Pounceby.

Letoa will be fighting on the 28th August at ASB Stadium Auckland ahead of the long awaited David Tua challenge on the 3rd October for the WBO Oriental and WBO Asia Pacific heavyweight titles currently with Shane Cameron.

Letoa and his corner Asiata Leon Stanley and Ale Vena Ale departs Tuesday for Auckland.

PHOTOS:

[1] (L-R) Togasilimai Letoa, Vaitele Soi & Seiaute Mailata.

[2] Members of the Samoa boxing fraternity and pro boxers in Apia.

[3] Samoa professional team in Auckland with PM John Key and National Party MPs.