The Dimples Boxing Club Amateur Boxing competition held in Ba yesterday witnessed a thrilling 46 bouts.
Twin brothers, Iokimi and Mitieli Narusese, delivered stellar performances in their respective fights against Australian opponents.
Competing in the 60kg category, Iokimi secured a unanimous points victory over Australia’s Luke Spice, while his brother, Mitieli Narusese, fighting in the 63.5kg category, won via a referee-stopped contest(rsc) in the second round against Armen Kwik of Australia.
Fiji Amateur Boxing Coach Cameron Todd expressed his pride in the twins’ performances, highlighting their strength and potential.
“I was really happy. My two Junior boys, Iokimi and Mitieli, showed again why they are Oceania champions. They are physically strong boys, and they dominated their Australian opponents. So I was really excited about them, because they’re going to be our future,” Todd said.
Apart from the Narusese twins, three other Fijian boxers also faced stiff competition from their Australian counterparts.
Although they didn’t secure victories, Todd said their performances were crucial learning experiences.
“The three other boys, Ben Williams, Jesoni, and Sakiusa Narara, all had hard fights. I wanted to give them a test. It was the first time Ben and Jesoni fought at that weight.
“Sakiusa is still developing, but all three worked hard, and I’m proud of their efforts,” he said.
“The Australian team is strong, and I brought them here to test our boxers.”
The competition saw a total of 46 bouts, drawing participants from across the country. Todd praised the event for giving local boxers much-needed exposure and experience.
“There are so many new boxers, and they traveled a long way to compete. It’s important not just to box in one area, but to get around the country, giving all coaches and fighters more chances. I’m really excited about the talent I’ve seen,” he added.
