APIA, SAMOA — Independent Boxing Samoa (IBS), in partnership with boxing legend Faumuina Toaletai David Tua, is thrilled to announce FIGHT FOR INDEPENDENCE 64, a milestone Pro-Am boxing showcase that will pit the best boxers from Samoa against the best from Fiji.
The historic fight night will take place this Friday, June 5th, at 6:00 PM at the N.U.S. Gym.
The event will feature eight action-packed bouts, bridging the gap between amateur talent and professional glory. It serves as a critical springboard for talented boxers looking to make the leap to the professional ranks, a pathway passionately championed by David Tua and IBS President Tavu’i Mike Lemisio.
The Main Events: A Leap to the Pros
The night will culminate in two thrilling professional main events, officially sanctioned by the South Pacific Professional Boxing Association.
Samoa’s Jolando Ta’ala will make his highly anticipated professional debut against Fiji’s Sainivalati Ratu in the Cruiserweight division.
Savai’i to the World: Saliuafi Ioane, hailing from Sato’alepai, will also make his pro debut, stepping into the ring to face Fiji’s Eliseo Cakaunivalu in the Light Heavyweight division.
Both Ta’ala and Ioane boast highly decorated amateur careers, having proudly represented Samoa on the international stage.
Rising Stars on the Undercard
The undercard promises explosive action, featuring top young male and female amateur boxers from both nations. A major highlight will be the return of Johnsal Semi, who recently represented Samoa with pride at the Youth World Boxing Cup earlier this year.
The David Tua Effect
The recent surge in Samoan boxing success is deeply tied to the efforts of Tua, who has been volunteering as Samoa’s local head trainer this year. He worked with local boxers that were part of the wider Samoan team that secured a gold and bronze medal at the Youth World Boxing Cup. Tua also recently led the national team to absolute glory at the Pacific Nations Cup, bringing home an astonishing 12 gold and 7 silver medals.
Tua and IBS are committed to creating sustainable pathways for local boxers to chase their dreams and achieve global recognition.
“It’s been a privilege and honour to be training our future leaders of Samoan boxing, and I believe moving back here to Samoa is God’s timing. God has gifted so many of our boys and girls with this talent. I really believe in due time the world will see the best of us.” Tua says.
Event Schedule
Jolando Ta’ala
Samoa
Sainivalati Ratu
Fiji
Saliuafi Ioane
Samoa
Eliseo Cakaunivalu
Fiji
The excitement has already begun to build following an intense Face-Off on Tuesday night held in front of the government building in front of a massive crowd at the Independence variety show.
Official Weigh-In: Thursday, June 4th at Lava Hotel at 10:00 AM.
Fight Night: Friday, June 5th at N.U.S. Gym. Doors open at 5:30 PM.
Fans are encouraged to arrive early to secure their spots for what promises to be an unforgettable night of sporting excellence, national pride, and raw talent.
About Independent Boxing Samoa
Independent Boxing Samoa Inc.
Independent Boxing Samoa Inc. is the official governing body for the sport of Olympic boxing. It is dedicated to the development of boxing in Samoa, providing local athletes with the platform, training, and opportunities needed to compete at the highest levels of both amateur and professional boxing.
