A significant chapter in Fiji’s boxing history is recounted in John Ramos’ upcoming book ‘Maker of Champions,’ shedding light on a pivotal moment in 1977 involving boxer Sakaraia Ve and his opponent Ali Afakasi. The story reveals a tense dispute between the Professional Boxing and Wrestling Association of Fiji (PBWAF) and Ramos, which nearly prevented him from coaching Ve during his crucial match against Afakasi.
Afakasi, a Samoan fighter based in New Zealand, was considered a robust contender in the Commonwealth welterweight division and positioned as a stepping stone towards Ve’s aspirations for a Commonwealth title. At the time, he held multiple titles, including the South Seas welterweight title, making this match a significant opportunity for Ve.
Despite facing a suspension from the PBWAF, Ramos was determined to see Ve succeed. The situation escalated when Ve independently informed the PBWAF that Ramos would not be in his corner, much to the surprise of PBWAF secretary Mumtaz Ali, who later acknowledged that Ve’s choice could have negatively impacted his career if Ramos had been present.
Ramos redirected his focus on preparing Ve for the match, which was deemed critical for his career. As the bout approached, Ve advocated for Ramos to join him, leading Ramos to apologize to the PBWAF through his solicitor and retract previous remarks that were critical of the association.
This heartfelt reconciliation allowed the PBWAF to lift Ramos’s suspension, much to the relief and joy of his camp. The match saw an enthusiastic turnout with more than 300 supporters from Ve’s community arriving to cheer him on.
Ultimately, Ve triumphed with a technical knockout in the sixth round, marking a pivotal victory that not only showcased his skills but also opened doors for future opportunities, including consideration for a Commonwealth title shot.
This historical account serves as a reminder of perseverance and the strength of teamwork in sports. It highlights how overcoming disputes can lead to significant achievements and how crucial support systems can be in the pursuit of success. The story illustrates that with determination and the willingness to reconcile differences, athletes like Ve can rise to fame and realize their dreams.
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