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Former South Pacific Games silver medallist and New Zealand heavyweight boxing champion Fonomanu Sēkona has died at the age of 72. The news was confirmed this morning via a Facebook post. Sēkona, who was recently hospitalised in New Zealand, was known for his illustrious boxing career.
The boxing world is mourning the death of “Young” Secona, a fighter known for his speed and agility in the ring. His son, Hano Secona, shared his grief on social media: “I adored and loved this man so much. I’m sorry, Dad. I haven’t cried yet. I’m just trying to stay strong for Mom. I’m worried about her health and don’t want her to see me break down.”
Known as “Young” Sekona in the ring, Sekona was so impressive in the ring that commentators compared him to legendary Tongan heavyweight Kitione Love. He was a major attraction for the South Pacific Boxing Association in New Zealand in the 1970s.
Sekona, from the Tongan village of Fo’ui, won nine professional tournaments in Fiji and Tonga and took home a silver medal at the 1969 South Pacific Games in Papua New Guinea.
His notable victories included bouts against Charlie Dunne, Tommy Mills and George Jerome. His unbeaten streak was ended when he was knocked out by British and Commonwealth champion Bonnie Johnson in an outdoor bout at Carlow Park.
Secona had a career of more than 30 fights, losing only four. Although he lived for a time in Hawaii, he rose to prominence on the New Zealand boxing scene in the 1970s. In his later years, he lived quietly in South Auckland and was in good health, but due to failing eyesight he no longer competed.
Secona’s contributions to the sport of boxing and his legacy as a top heavyweight fighter are fondly remembered.
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