It’s his first time stepping into a boxing ring on American soil, and no nerves will stop this young Fijian from chasing greatness.
Sixteen-year-old, Meli Buinamasi is all set for the 2025 National Olympics and Junior Summer Festival in Las Vegas, Nevada, organized by USA Boxing.
Meli has been throwing punches and wining gold medals – making a name for himself – in Fiji since 2022, and is now ready for his international debut.
He won gold in the 60Kg category at Oceania Youth and Junior Championships last year. He will compete in the over 100kg category for his next takedown.
Meli, who migrated from Fiji early this year, could not find a suitable match to compete with in the Sonoma County, said Jeremaia Buinamasi, his father and trainer.
“He was too strong for them,” Mr Buinamasi claimed.
“I told him that if there was no match locally, we will find them in the nationals, so we applied.”
With unwavering focus and passion, Meli is training hard for his ultimate showdown.
“This has been a dream, and I can’t wait to throw my hands and make my country proud.”
Divine Fijians Home Care (DFHC), a USA-based caregiving agency with deep roots in Fiji, is supporting Meli’s dream of becoming a professional boxer.
The support stems from years of experience in boxing talent management by DFHC chief executive officer, Poasa Koroitamana.
“I know a champion when I see one,” said Mr Koroitamana.
“Competing at the national level is a huge achievement for someone as young as Meli.
“We want our children to explore opportunities without any hindrance, which is why we are supporting him.”
Mr Koroitamana who managed multiple boxers in Fiji is giving his full support for Meli to pursue the career.
“We will make you a world champion as long as you keep that spark,” he told Meli.
“This sponsorship aligns with our mission to help Fijian kids stay away from drugs. It is a growing threat in Fiji, limiting their chances to living better life.
“We are more than a caregiving agency. Together with what our clients give us, we pass it on especially in developing skillsets at a young age.”
The Junior Olympics starts Saturday, June 14, for an entire week.
Photo: DFHC