India’s Aarti Hoodha defeated Fiji’s Laite Nanovu by unanimous decision in their lightweight contest at the Stratum Construction Zeg Kings Boxing Promotions held at the Vodafone Arena in Suva. The judges scored the bout 60–54, 59–55, and 59–55, all in favour of Hoodha.
Hoodha stunned Nanovu with a strong right to the cheek in the second round, raising expectations of an early finish. However, the determined Fijian held her ground till the final bell. The Indian fighter, clearly the more experienced and fitter of the two, maintained control throughout the six rounds, though she could not land the knockout she sought.
India’s Rohit also secured a win over Fiji’s Felise Nabua after the towel was thrown in during the sixth round, while compatriot Pawan Kumar went down to Australia’s Andrew Maloney, who was awarded a TKO victory in their Super Bantamweight clash.
Indian High Commissioner to Fiji, Suneet Mehta, who attended the event along with Acting President Chief Justice Salesi Temo, congratulated the winners and highlighted the growing sporting ties between India and Fiji.
“Heartiest congratulations to Indian boxers Rohit and Aarti Hoodha on their impressive victories, and to Pawan Kumar for his spirited effort. Warm congratulations also to Fiji’s Junior Binnu Singh on securing the Super Bantamweight WBA Oceania Interim Title,” Mehta said, thanking organisers and participants for making the evening a memorable celebration of boxing and friendship.
Meanwhile, Isikeli Senidoko became the new Boxing Commission of Fiji Super Middleweight Champion, knocking out Junior Abhay Chand in the second round. Keanu Nadan also impressed, finishing off Apisai Naqica with a first-round knockout.
Earlier in the night, Fiji’s Mikaele Ravalaca claimed the WBA Oceania Lightweight title after a clinical seventh-round TKO win over Australia’s Francis Chua. Ravalaca’s powerful rights repeatedly rocked Chua, forcing the referee to stop the contest.
Other results saw Kimo Vakalalabure defeat Rev Anand on points, while New Zealand’s Larnce Claerk beat Senivalati Ratu by TKO. Ilikimi Saudromedrome outpointed William Korocawiri, and Fiji’s heavyweight champion Semi Dauloloma knocked out Savenaca Tuiratu in the second round.
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