Fiji’s amateur boxer, Esava Tuivodo, has kicked off the Tri-Nations Boxing tournament with an impressive win, claiming the gold medal on the first day of competition. Competing in the under-15 grade, Tuivodo secured victory over Australia’s Riley Jackson via a second-round stoppage by the referee.
This victory holds deep personal significance for Tuivodo. He dedicated his performance to his late father, who passed away in 2024, highlighting the emotional weight behind his achievement. In an interview with his head coach Rusiate Toqabale from the Kwaca na Vatu club in Namosi, Tuivodo shared his joy and gratitude for the win. Toqabale expressed pride in Tuivodo’s dedication to boxing and the hard work put in by the team.
“This is a special win for him, as he has always had a passion for the sport,” said Toqabale. He noted that this club, established just last year, has already shown significant progress, with their first international competition marking an exciting milestone. With 30 boxers from their club taking part in this historic tournament, the community’s support signifies a growing enthusiasm for amateur boxing in Fiji.
Tuivodo’s commitment to training has not gone unnoticed. Toqabale emphasized that if he maintains consistency and continues to work hard towards his goals, Tuivodo has a bright future ahead. He also recognized the contributions of Fiji’s head coach, Cam Todd, for providing the young athletes with opportunities to represent both their club and Fiji on an international platform.
This event is not just about victories—it’s a celebration of the hard work and dreams of young athletes who aspire for greatness, aligning with the hope that Fiji’s boxing scene will continue to thrive and produce champions. The community backing and the emerging talents from clubs like Kwaca na Vatu are paving the way for a promising future in Fijian boxing. As the tournament progresses, the boxing scene in Fiji is expected to receive even more attention and support from local fans, highlighting the sport’s importance in fostering youth involvement and growth within the nation.
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