Boxer Saimoni Ratu arrived in Labasa yesterday with a clear goal in mind: to secure the vacant Fiji lightweight title and advance his boxing career. In an interview with SUNsports, the determined fighter from Serea, Naitasiri, expressed that a loss against Umbayd Haider in their title bout at Labasa’s Subrail Park tomorrow would lead to his retirement from the sport.
“I’m in a do-or-die situation,” Ratu stated confidently. He shared that boxing has been a lifelong pursuit, having started as an amateur at the age of 14 and representing Fiji by 16, although he could have begun earlier if not for age restrictions.
“I love the sport, but if I lose to Haider, I’m retiring. If I win, I’ll continue fighting. I’m going for a win and I’m confident about it,” he said.
Ratu hails from a boxing family, with older brothers Joeli Naleca, Waisele Ratu, and Opeti Tagi all having held Fiji titles in their weight classes. His father, Saula Naicori, who has been training Ratu despite health challenges, accompanied him to Labasa, and Ratu expressed gratitude for their time together.
He also thanked South Pacific Boxing Promotions director Mohammed Shaheem and promoter Fred Chand for their support and the opportunity to compete again.
Haider recently claimed the Fiji super featherweight title by defeating Krishnil Mudaliar in the eighth round in July. Ratu made waves last year when he knocked out Mudaliar in the first round.
“We’re fighting at 61 kilos against Haider, and I have no issues making weight for the weigh-in. I’ve focused on my fitness, which will be my advantage in the ring,” he added.
The official weigh-in is scheduled for today at 2 PM at the Pacific Energy Service Station, located opposite Meenoos Labasa.