Sport
1News

Kiwi Commonwealth Games medallist sacrifices Olympic goal for professional boxer status

September 28, 2018

Patrick Mailata is looking to emulate the likes of Joseph Parker and David Tua on the world stage.

Up and coming Kiwi boxer Patrick Mailata is giving up his Olympic dream, choosing to turn professional.

Mailata, 23, shot to fame at this year's Commonwealth Games on the Gold Coast, taking home a Super Heavyweight bronze medal for his efforts.

However, despite the Tokyo Olympics rapidly approaching, the Samoan born fighter has decided that the time's right to turn professional.

"When I was younger, the Olympics was my main focus," Mailata told 1 NEWS.

"Then again, in life you change your dreams."

Mailata sought the advice of Kiwi boxing legends Shane Cameron and David Tua, looking to emulate the feats of Joseph Parker - who he defeated in his time as an amateur.

Commonwealth Games champion Frazer Clarke vouched for Mailata's decision, having previously fought against the South Auckland raised fighter.

"I challenge anyone to stand with him like that and see if they come off the winner, because they won't," he said.

Having previously been a part of world champion Anthony Joshua's training camp, Mailata is eyeing the UK as the ideal launching point for his professional career.

"Hopefully they'd accept me and want to watch me fight."

First on the agenda however, is finding a manager to help secure a maiden professional fight.

SHARE ME

More Stories