Fonomanu Sēkona, the former South Pacific Games silver medalist and New Zealand heavyweight boxing title holder, has died at the age of 72. The news was confirmed via a Facebook post this morning. Sēkona, who had been hospitalised recently in New Zealand, was renowned for his impressive boxing career.
The boxing community is mourning the loss of “Young” Sēkona, a fighter known for his speed and agility in the ring. His son, Hano Sēkona, shared his grief on social media: “I really idolise and adore this man. Sorry, Dad. I’ve yet to cry. I’m just trying to stay strong for Mom. I’m concerned for her well-being and don’t want her to see me break down.”
Sēkona, known as “Young” Sēkona in the ring, was special in the ring, with commentators likening him to the legendary Tongan heavyweight Kitione Lave. In the 1970s, he was a major drawcard for the South Pacific Boxing Association in New Zealand.
Hailing from Fo’ui village in Tonga, Sekona won nine professional matches across Fiji and Tonga and earned silver at the 1969 South Pacific Games in Papua New Guinea.
His notable victories included bouts against Charlie Dunn, Tommy Mears, and George Jerome. His unbeaten streak ended when he was knocked out by Bunny Johnson, a British and Commonwealth Champion, in an outdoor match at Carlaw Park.
In a career spanning over 30 fights, Sēkona lost only four times. Though he lived in Hawaii briefly, he made his mark in New Zealand’s boxing scene during the 1970s. In his later years, he lived quietly in South Auckland, staying in shape but no longer attending fights due to declining vision.
Sēkona’s contributions to boxing and his legacy as a top heavyweight are remembered fondly.
