'Contender' Contestant Taihia Allegedly Made, Dealt Meth
by David P. Greisman
Adrian Taihia — a super middleweight and light heavyweight from New Zealand who appeared on the Australian version of boxing reality competition “The Contender” — is being accused of being involved with a drug manufacturing and distribution ring, according to the APNZ News Service.
“He is charged with counts of manufacturing methamphetamine and single charges of conspiracy to manufacture methamphetamine, supply of methamphetamine and participation in an organized criminal group,” the report said.
Taihia turned pro in early 2008. By 2009 he was on “The Contender,” losing via second-round knockout to eventual show runner-up Kariz Kariuki.
The 31-year-old last fought in May, winning a 12-round decision over a 14-14-1 opponent Togasilimai Letoa, according to BoxRec. That victory brought Taihia’s record to 12-1-2 with 6 KOs.
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