Boxer Saimoni Ratu arrived in Labasa yesterday with the aim of winning the vacant Fiji lightweight title and advancing his boxing career. In an interview, the tough fighter from Naitasiri expressed that he would retire from the sport if he loses to Umbayd Haider in their title match scheduled for tomorrow at Subrail Park in Labasa.
“I’m in a do-or-die situation,” Ratu stated. He emphasized his lifelong dedication to boxing, having started as an amateur at age 14 and representing Fiji by age 16.
Despite his love for the sport, Ratu is committed to retiring if he does not secure a victory. “If I lose to Haider then I’m retiring, but if I win I’ll continue fighting. I’m going for a win, and I’m confident about it,” he said.
Ratu hails from a boxing family, with older brothers Joeli Naleca, Waisele Ratu, and Opeti Tagi having held Fiji titles in various weight divisions. He expressed gratitude for his father, Saula Naicori, who has been his trainer. Despite suffering from health issues, his father has supported Ratu throughout the previous month of training.
Ratu thanked South Pacific Boxing Promotions director Mohammed Shaheem and promoter Fred Chand for providing him with another opportunity and for their backing during his training.
In July, Haider won the Fiji super featherweight title by stopping Krishnil Mudaliar in the eighth round. Last year, Ratu gained attention by knocking out Mudaliar in the first round.
“We’re fighting at 61 kilos against Haider, and I have no issues making the weight during the weigh-in. I’ve focused on my fitness, which should be my advantage in the ring,” he noted.
The official weigh-in is scheduled for today at Pacific Energy Service Station, located opposite Meenoos in Labasa, at 2 PM.