Fijiana 7s star Sera Bolatini made headlines at the Vodafone Arena in Suva by winning the WBA Women’s Australasia Welterweight title at the ZEG Kings Boxing Promotion. The match, held on Saturday, saw the 24-year-old triumph over Australia’s Connie Chan with a unanimous points decision, making her the first Fijian woman to seize an international boxing title.
Bolatini, hailing from Vuma village in Ovalau, exhibited remarkable skill and stamina throughout the bout, effectively capitalizing on her reach advantage with powerful jabs. She demonstrated resilience until the eighth round, showcasing the dedication she has honed through rigorous training.
The moment was made even more special as Bolatini’s parents joined her in the ring to celebrate this historic achievement. “I felt really happy for my parents who came to watch me today. This is also the first time they came and watched me box,” she expressed, radiating joy over this shared milestone.
In reflecting on her journey, Bolatini credited her coach, Osea Nanovu, for his unwavering support and motivation. “Before entering the ring, I was confident I would win. My coach says nothing is impossible, and we have worked hard for this opportunity,” she remarked. With this victory occurring in just her third professional bout, Bolatini emphasized the importance of learning through her experiences, noting that every fight has contributed to her growth as an athlete.
“This win is truly special for me, as all the hard work put in during training has paid off,” she stated, dedicating her victory to her supporters who have stood by her throughout her boxing journey.
Bolatini’s win not only marks a significant personal achievement but also serves as an inspiration for women in sports and boxing, reflecting the growing representation and opportunities for female athletes in Fiji. Her story embodies hope and determination, a reminder that perseverance can lead to groundbreaking accomplishments in any field.
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