Boxer Saimoni Ratu arrived in Labasa yesterday with the goal of securing the vacant Fiji lightweight title and advancing his boxing career. In an interview with SUNsports, the strong contender from Naitasiri expressed that he would retire from boxing if he loses to Umbayd Haider in their matchup at Labasa’s Subrail Park tomorrow.
“I’m in a do-or-die situation,” Ratu stated.
His boxing journey began at the age of 14 when he started as an amateur boxer, representing Fiji at 16, and while he could have participated earlier, he was underage at the time.
“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 I feel confident,” he remarked.
Ratu hails from a renowned boxing family, with his older brothers Joeli Naleca, Waisele Ratu, and Opeti Tagi holding Fiji titles in their respective weight classes. He shared that their father, Saula Naicori, who has been his trainer despite health challenges, accompanied him to Labasa. “I’m fortunate to have my dad here with me,” Ratu said.
He expressed gratitude to South Pacific Boxing Promotions director Mohammed Shaheem and promoter Fred Chand for their support and for providing him another chance in the sport during his training.
Haider recently claimed the Fiji super featherweight title after stopping Krishnil Mudaliar in the eighth round in July. Last year, Ratu surprised the boxing community by knocking out Mudaliar in the first round.
“We’ll be fighting at 61 kilos against Haider, and I have no issues with making weight during the weigh-in. My fitness is my key asset in the ring,” he added.
The official weigh-in is scheduled for today at Pacific Energy Service Station, opposite Meenoos Labasa, at 2 p.m.