The Dimples Boxing Club hosted an exciting Amateur Boxing competition in Ba yesterday, featuring a total of 46 bouts. Twin brothers Iokimi and Mitieli Narusese delivered impressive performances against their Australian opponents.
Iokimi, competing in the 60kg category, achieved a unanimous points victory over Luke Spice from Australia. Meanwhile, Mitieli, who fought in the 63.5kg category, won his match against Armen Kwik, also from Australia, through a referee-stopped contest in the second round.
Fiji’s Amateur Boxing Coach, Cameron Todd, expressed his pride in the twins’ accomplishments, emphasizing their strength and future potential. “I was really happy. My two junior boys, Iokimi and Mitieli, showed again why they are Oceania champions. They are physically strong boys and dominated their Australian opponents. I’m really excited about them because they’re going to be our future,” Todd stated.
In addition to the Narusese twins, three other Fijian boxers faced tough competition from their Australian counterparts. Although they did not secure wins, Todd noted that their experiences were essential for development.
“The three other boys, Ben Williams, Jesoni, and Sakiusa Narara, all had hard fights. I wanted to give them a test. It was the first time Ben and Jesoni fought at that weight. Sakiusa is still developing, but all three worked hard, and I’m proud of their efforts,” Todd commented, acknowledging the strength of the Australian team and the importance of testing local boxers.
The competition, which attracted participants from across the nation, provided local boxers with valuable exposure and experience. Todd remarked, “There are so many new boxers, and they traveled a long way to compete. It’s important not just to box in one area but to get around the country, giving all coaches and fighters more chances. I’m really excited about the talent I’ve seen.”