SANIVALATI “The Warrior” Ratu delivered the biggest win of his boxing career after upsetting former Fiji heavyweight champion James “The Beast” Singh in a controversial points decision at the Bluewater Boxing Promotion’s “Lawaqa Rumble” at Lawaqa Park in Sigatoka on Saturday night.
The heavyweight showdown lived up to expectations with both fighters exchanging heavy blows in front of a vocal crowd before Ratu was awarded the judges’ decision.
The result, however, sparked heated reactions from Singh’s camp with police officers called in to maintain order around ringside after the announcement.
Singh later admitted disappointment in his performance but insisted he had done enough to win the bout.
“I’m disappointed in myself because I didn’t work hard enough in the ring,” Singh said.
“I was going easy because he’s my former training partner, but I was landing the cleaner and more powerful shots and I believe I deserved the victory.”
The veteran heavyweight immediately called for a rematch in August.
“I’m sure he’ll take the rematch because fighting me guarantees the best purse for any local fighter,” he added.
Ratu, meanwhile, wasted no time in setting his sights on Fiji heavyweight champion Semi Dauloloma.
“After beating James Singh, who is the number one heavyweight outside the champion, I believe I deserve a title shot,” Ratu said.
“I’ve fought Semi four times in the amateurs, and he couldn’t knock me out.”
In the main supporting bout, WBA Oceania lightweight champion Mikaele “High Voltage” Ravalaca stopped Kaliova Tahikia via third-round TKO and is now expected to defend his regional title against an overseas opponent in August.
Other results saw Jese Ravudi beat Filise Nabua on points, Poasa Tuimaba defeat Saimoni Mario by second-round TKO, and Zulfikar Zeraan Ali overcome Ronesh Prasad via TKO. Jone Tabuarua, Rusiate Veremalua and Naden Keanu also recorded victories on the night.
