In the Blue Corner …
It’s been a long time in the making … but the Samoan Heroes book is just a few weeks away from release. The books are on a ship coming from China, due to arrive late this month, just in time for Samoan Independence celebrations!
In anticipation, the next few posts will be some extracts from the book. First up – To’aletai David Tua.
When David fought Lennox Lewis for the Heavyweight Championship, he faced an opponent with a similar style to Floyd Mayweather. Like Floyd, Lennox fought a defensive fight, keeping out of reach of David’s dangerous left hook.
I think a lot of people underestimate David’s achievement. Many people believe the Heavyweight Boxing Title is the most prestigious title in sports and David was the first person of Polynesian heritage to reach that level.
David’s father continued to watch replays of the fight months afterward. “Why do you keep watching that, Dad?” David would ask, a little embarrassed about the result. “Because we’re proud of you son,” his Dad would reply.
Lennox’s trainer, the legendary Emanuel Steward, later said, “That was the most scared Lennox has ever been before a fight. What David has accomplished when you consider his physical handicaps is phenomenal.” Emanuel should know – he’s trained some of the best boxers in history including Thomas “Hitman” Hearns and Wladimir Klitschko the current Heavyweight Champion.
