Boxer Saimoni Ratu arrived in Labasa with a clear goal: to secure the vacant Fiji lightweight title and advance his boxing career. Speaking to SUNsports, the Serea native from Naitasiri expressed that he would hang up his gloves if he loses to Umbayd Haider in their title bout at Subrail Park tomorrow.
“I’m in a do-or-die situation,” Ratu stated. He reflected on his boxing journey, starting as an amateur at 14 and representing Fiji at 16. “I love the sport, but if I lose to Haider, then I’m retiring; if I win, I’ll keep fighting. I’m aiming for victory and I feel confident.”
Ratu comes from a boxing lineage, with his older brothers Joeli Naleca, Waisele Ratu, and Opeti Tagi having held Fiji titles in their weight classes. He also highlighted the support of his father, Saula Naicori, who has been his trainer despite his health challenges. “I’m blessed to have my dad with me in Labasa,” Ratu said.
He expressed gratitude to South Pacific Boxing Promotions director Mohammed Shaheem and promoter Fred Chand for providing him with this opportunity and supporting him during his training.
Haider recently won the Fiji super featherweight title by defeating Krishnil Mudaliar in the eighth round. Ratu previously made headlines by knocking out Mudaliar in the first round last year.
“We’ll be fighting in the 61-kilo limit against Haider, and I’m confident about making weight. My fitness will be my main advantage in the ring,” he added.
The official weigh-in is scheduled for today at Pacific Energy Service Station in Labasa at 2 PM.