Ravudi’s body punches stop Naidu in 9
The World Boxing Foundation ( WBF) sia Pacific super welterweight champion Jese Ravudi has set his sights on returning to fight in Australia next year. Ravudi who is dubbed ‘The Hitman’ scored a ninth round technical knockout win over Ronald Naidu in the main bout of the Kiran Boxing Promotion at Prince Charles Park, Nadi, on Saturday night.
Ravudi controlled the pace of the fight from the first round. He ripped Naidu’s body with powerful punches throughout the rounds. This slowed Naidu down as the body punches took its toll on him in the later rounds. Referee Jone Loloma stopped the contest in the ninth round, after Naidu’s cornermen gave up.
“This is my second title,” Ravudi said. “First the super welterweight title of Fiji and now this. I wanted to prove to Ronald that the last time he won was because of the judges scoring.
“I did not want to leave the fight in the judges’ hands this time. I came for a knockout and next year I want to fight in Australia.” When approached Naidu was gracious in defeat.
“I had the heart to fight but it was not my day,” he said.
“I would like to challenge Jese once again since I did give him a chance. We need a decider as we have each won a fight. Or perhaps we can put both our titles on the line with the winner taking it all.”
In the middleweight women’s bout, Katerina ‘ Samoan Beauty’ Singh drew with Visila
Kolitapa. “I was not really there as I was sick two weeks ago but made it through the help of my family,” Kolitapa said.
“I thank those that supported me all the way from Nadroga and to my sponsors. It was a draw and there is another time around. I am trying very hard for the promoters to get a Fiji belt so women can be empowered and given more recognition.”