Ronald Naidu staged a last-minute barrage to down Nathan Singh to win the Fiji lightweight title during the South Pacific Promotions program in Nadi on Saturday.
Down on the scorecards, Naidu forced Singh onto the ropes in the final round and unleashed his power punches to which Singh could not answer.
Singh dropped and hung on the bottom rope as referee Jerry Ledua pulled Naidu back. Singh got up, but among the confusion, the officials and corner men entered the ring.
As Naidu’s supporters jumped for joy and Singh’s fans vented frustration, BCF official Allen Harris announced a technical knockout victory for Naidu.
Singh seemed distressed at the result and became very emotional. Naidu said he used his experience at the end to gain victory. He said he did not have much sparring sessions.
“I took the punches from Nathan but I still had the power in the final round so I used it,” Naidu said.
“I stuck to my game plan to keep enough stamina to last the ten rounds and I did the job.
“I will now look for boxers who can challenge me in the 69kg, 66kg or 63kg weight category. “I dedicate this victory to my father Ram Sami Naidu who is admitted at hospital.”
Results: Mikaele Gonerara def Safroz Ali (KO), Benjamin Joseph def Ritesh Goundar (Pts), James Singh def Vilimoni Taganikoro (TKO), Nepote Dawadawa def Filimoni Naliva Junior (Pts), Sebastian Singh-Ratu Daunivavana (Draw), Jese Ravudi def Abhay Chand (Pts), Ronald Naidu def Nathan Singh (TKO), Alivereti Kauyaca def Savenaca Naliva (Pts)
