04/09/2026
🥊 Today, Lopeti “The Explorer” Aiolupotea heads to Samoa with Team New Zealand to compete in the 85kg Elite Cruiserweight division at the Oceania Championships, 7–12 September 2026. From the Queensland Golden Gloves to the Oceania stage, this is an incredible journey and a well earned opportunity. Proudly of Māori and Samoan descent, Lopeti carries the silver fern with pride while returning to his Samoan roots, embracing his culture and representing his family, gym and country.
From your coaches and everyone at Green Gloves Boxing Gym: manuia lava taumafaiga, Lopeti. O le a matou tatalo ma tapua’i atu mai Niu Sila—ia manuia, uli ma sao le fa’amoemoe. May God guide your feet, protect you throughout your travels and give you strength in every round. Leave everything in the ring, enjoy every moment and make this opportunity count—we are all incredibly proud of you! To Craig and the entire Team New Zealand squad, all the best for Oceania. Fight hard, enjoy the journey and create memories that will last a lifetime. Ia manuia! 🇳🇿🇼🇸💚🥊