BY CHRIS ALEX
IN a heart-warming display of camaraderie and sportsmanship, Fijian gold medalist boxer Davule Jone at the recently concluded XVII Pacific Games expressed his sincere appreciation and words of support for fellow pugilist Max Makana, encouraging him to persevere in his boxing career.
Two weeks ago, at the SIFF academy in Honiara, Fijian Davule Jone prevailed over Max Makana of the Solomon Islands in a closely fought boxing match in the men’s 60kg amateur division. Later on, he expressed his belief in the young Makana’s potential by calling him a “very talented boxer.”
Davule urged Makana to commit to his own development through hard training and by praying to a higher power for direction.
”Train more to improve in certain areas and seek God; He will do the rest,” Jone told RAW SPORTS.
The Fijian-born 27-year-old Jone acknowledged Makana’s skill and pointed to a bright future for the promising boxing star.
Davule’s mother previously died before the start of the XVII Pacific Games in Honiara, and he had a challenging year personally. However, he was open about his difficulties.
“Resilience came from his unwavering faith in God,” he said. “Without God, nothing is possible.”
Thinking back on his fight in the ring with Makana, Jone conveyed his appreciation for the chances they had together and emphasized the good that their efforts could do for the young people in the Solomon Islands and Fiji.
“This moment will touch the souls of Solomon Islands kids and Fijian kids,” Davule said, underscoring the inspiration that athletes can provide to the younger generation.
Davule’s words serve as a testament to the relationships made in the ring, which go beyond competition to provide support and encouragement in the face of personal struggles, as the Pacific boxing community recently came together to support one another at this year’s Games.
