Tasman Fighters ‘deciding’ on Justis Huni-Kiki Toa Leutele after trainer’s death

Tasman Fighters are considering the status of Justis Huni’s fight with Kiki Toa Leutele following the sudden death of Huni’s trainer Keri Fiu.

The heavyweights are scheduled to fight on the undercard of Jai Opetaia-Huseyin Cinkara at the Gold Coast Convention Centre in Gold Coast, Australia on December 6, but Fiu’s death on Wednesday – following a heart attack at the age of 49 – has, inevitably, left their date in doubt.

Huni, 26, helped his strength and conditioning coach to revive Fiu after watching him collapse during a training session. Fiu was put into an induced coma and entered intensive care, but ultimately didn’t survive. 

The contest between Huni and New Zealand’s Leutele represents the second time that they have been matched as professionals. The Australian won via decision over 10 rounds when they fought in November 2022; their rematch is particularly pivotal for him, given it is his first fight since his first defeat, by England’s Fabio Wardley in June. 

Huni responded to that defeat by promoting Fiu to the role of trainer, and it is that wider picture he and his promoters will debate when determining whether the fight with the 31-year-old Leutele will proceed.

“At this point we are all in shock at losing our great friend and team member,” Tasman Fighters’ Mick Francis told BoxingScene. “There has been no decision made, either way. 

“We will make that decision in due course. For now, everything is going ahead.”