Tongan-born boxer Nailini Helu is set to make history as the first Tongan female to fight for a world boxing title. Helu will challenge two-division champion Lani Daniels for the IBF Light Heavyweight title on April 5 at the Taupo Event Centre in New Zealand.
“This is a historic fight on so many levels,” said boxing commentator Benjamin Watt. “It’s the first major world title fight outside Hamilton, Auckland, and Northland, and only the second world title clash between a Maori and Pasifika fighter.”
The bout is also a rematch. In 2018, Daniels successfully defended her New Zealand national title against Helu. Since then, Helu has overcome significant setbacks, including losses to top contenders, to claim the South Pacific Super Middleweight title twice, propelling her to sixth in the IBF rankings.
Daniels, of Ngāti Hine/Ngāpuhi descent, has held the IBF Light Heavyweight title for over 410 days. She aims to extend her reign and add to her storied career, which includes two world titles.

Promoter Nigel Elliott of Ironfist Promotions emphasized the fight’s significance, calling it “high-risk and incredibly expensive” but a important moment for New Zealand boxing.
Tickets go on sale February 1 via Eventfinda, with live streaming available on YouTube.