Boxer Saimoni Ratu arrived in Labasa yesterday with the goal of claiming the vacant Fiji lightweight title and advancing his boxing career. In an interview with SUNsports, the determined fighter from Naitasiri revealed that losing to Umbayd Haider in their title match at Labasa’s Subrail Park tomorrow would lead him to retire from boxing.
“I’m in a do-or-die situation,” Ratu stated, expressing the gravity of the moment. He began boxing at 14, representing Fiji by 16, although he felt he could have pursued it earlier if not for age restrictions.
“I love the sport, but if I lose to Haider, then I’m retiring. If I win, I’ll continue fighting. I’m focused on winning and feel confident about it.”
Ratu hails from a boxing family, with his brothers Joeli Naleca, Waisele Ratu, and Opeti Tagi all having held Fiji titles in their weight classes. He also noted that their father, Saula Naicori, who has been his trainer, accompanied him to Labasa despite facing health issues. “I’m blessed to be here with my dad,” he said.
He conveyed his gratitude to South Pacific Boxing Promotions director Mohammed Shaheem and promoter Fred Chand for their ongoing support and for providing him with this opportunity.
Haider earned the Fiji super featherweight title by defeating Krishnil Mudaliar in July, while Ratu made headlines last year by knocking out Mudaliar in the first round. Ratu mentioned that they will compete in the 61-kilo category and assured that he has successfully managed his weight leading up to the fight. “I’ve worked on my fitness, and that should be my advantage in the ring,” he remarked.
The official weigh-in is scheduled for today at Pacific Energy Service Station, located opposite Meenoos Labasa, at 2 PM.