Boxing Samoa Squad Wins 19 Medals at Pacific Nations Cup

“Despite our limited resources, IBS strives to provide our young fighters the international pathways they deserve,” -  IBS President Tavu’i Mike Lemisio.

Samoa has dominated the Pacific Nations Cup in Suva, Fiji, bringing home an impressive 19 medals, 12 gold and 7 silver, in a commanding performance across both elite and youth divisions.

The result builds on last month’s Youth World Cup success in Thailand, where Samoa also secured gold and silver, further highlighting the rapid rise of Independent Boxing Samoa (IBS) on the international stage.

Led by Lemisio and head trainer, boxing legend Faumuina To’aletai David Tua, the team’s success reflects weeks of intense preparation, combining high-level training with a strong spiritual foundation. Their efforts were backed by a dedicated coaching and management group working behind the scenes.

“We could only send a small team… but we hope to one day field a full team covering all weight classes and genders for all world events,” Lemisio said. “With the help of the government and local businesses, and faith in God, we are working towards giving our athletes the opportunities they work so hard for.”

Standout results

Team captain Saliuafi Tuautu (75kg) led from the front with two gold medals, while heavyweight Jolando Ta’ala (90+kg) claimed gold and was named Best Male Boxer of the tournament.

Ioane Ioane, Darius Poulava and Luke Schwalger each secured a gold and a silver, adding depth to Samoa’s elite success.

In the youth division, Alavine Sasa and Anthony Lama-Roebeck both delivered two gold medals each, with strong performances from Mike Vui, Wells Matua, Polu Ta’avao and Tasi Saufoi rounding out the medal haul.

With momentum firmly on their side, IBS now looks ahead to major international competitions, including the Commonwealth Games, Elite World Cup and Youth Olympic Games, as Samoa’s boxers continue to make their mark.