Mikaele Ravalaca has emerged as Fiji’s new lightweight boxing champion following a spectacular victory over Mohammed Ali, achieved by technical knockout (TKO) in just 45 seconds into the second round. This significant match was part of the Bluewater Boxing Promotions event, held at the Vodafone Arena in Suva last Saturday.
The bout was characterized by a fierce exchange of powerful strikes, reflecting the skill and resilience of both fighters. Ravalaca, demonstrating exceptional control and aggression, managed to land a decisive jab that sent Ali to the mat, prompting the referee to halt the contest, thereby securing the lightweight title for Fiji. The atmosphere in the arena was charged with excitement, as this victory marks a pivotal moment in Fijian boxing history, with no champion having claimed the lightweight belt for quite some time.
In his remarks post-fight, Ravalaca expressed gratitude towards Ali for being a tough competitor and acknowledged the significance of this win for his career. Ali, reflecting good sportsmanship, indicated his desire for a rematch in the future, despite facing challenges with the weight drop required for this fight.
This victory adds to Ravalaca’s growing reputation in the boxing community, following his impressive track record that includes multiple victories in Australia. His success serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for aspiring boxers in Fiji, suggesting a bright future for the sport as it continues to gain recognition locally and internationally.
The boxing event also featured several other matches, with notable wins including Alivereti Kauyaca against Paulo Ratumaikuro and Ratu Rakuro Daunivavana’s TKO victory over Masitogi Rokotuva. The burgeoning talent showcased in these contests highlights the ongoing revitalization of boxing in Fiji.
As Ravalaca prepares for future challenges, including a scheduled bout against Runqi Zhou in May, the boxing community eagerly anticipates his next steps. The excitement surrounding his journey serves not only as a testament to his skills but also reflects the positive momentum for the sport within the nation, inspiring the next generation of fighters.
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