Ray Galoa, a promising 21-year-old welterweight amateur boxer, had an impressive record of six wins in seven fights during a single season, as reported in an article on August 2, 1982. Infused with a deep passion for boxing, he established the Navatu Boxing Club with local boys from Kinoya and was confident of securing a spot on the Fiji team for the upcoming Commonwealth Games.
Galoa’s victories included notable wins against 1979 South Pacific Games trialists Joseva Nakui and Viliame Lesu. He had also triumphed over Balawabilo, an experienced and powerful opponent, the previous year. His only defeat came at the hands of New Caledonian international champion Sivi Tuatane. Despite dominating the match and leading on points, Galoa was shocked by the referee’s decision to award the fight to Tuatane. This controversial ruling, among other biased actions from New Caledonian officials, resulted in an altercation that led to Galoa’s manager, Inoke Qarau, being jailed.
Galoa was determined to secure his place on the Fiji boxing team for the Commonwealth Games set for September. He expressed confidence, stating, “I see no boxer in my division right now who’ll stop me from going to Brisbane.” However, he acknowledged the need for hard work against Atonio Tui, who had claimed the welterweight gold in Tahiti earlier that year, and Netani Gucake, a Canadian Golden Glove fighter, both of whom were included in the trials for the team selection.
Initially taking up boxing for self-defense, Galoa shared that friends encouraged him to pursue the sport competitively upon recognizing his potential. Boxing was a family tradition for Galoa; his uncle, Semi Galoa, was known as one of the most scientific boxers in the early 1950s and tragically died in the ring at the age of 23. Additionally, his father, Lorima Cokanasiga, was a noteworthy light heavyweight contender in the mid-1940s.
Galoa began his serious boxing journey training at Charman’s Club in Suva but found the lack of sparring partners challenging. Consequently, he gathered friends to form the Navatu Boxing Club. As he anticipated a critical fight the following night, he viewed it as a significant step towards his chances at the Commonwealth Games. A boxing enthusiast had already rated him as a potential medalist for the South Pacific Games, although uncertainty lingered over his competition against top fighters from other Commonwealth nations.
Overall, Galoa was recognized for his toughness, strength, and promising boxing style, as he prepared for the challenges ahead with high hopes of achieving medal success.