Fighting Umbayd Haider for the vacant Fiji lightweight title is a dream come true for stylish Naitasiri boxer, Saimoni Ratu.

Speaking to SUNsports yesterday, Ratu said this is his chance to make use of the opportunity.

The title fight is under the South Pacific Boxing Promotions set for Friday, August 10, at Subrail Park, Labasa.

“I’m fortunate enough to be given another chance for a title fight and I will give my one hundred per cent,” he said.

“I will not underestimate Haider and I lost my previous fight to Mikaele Ravalaca because I did not prepare well for it.”

Ratu said he accepted the Ravalaca fight in the last minute because he was offered good money.

“This title fight will be my last and we’ll see who really wants to win that belt.

“I have spared with him (Haider) and I know how heavy his punches are. It is up to me to train properly and to show him who rightfully deserves that belt.” Ratu said he wants to prove critics wrong when they say it’s a mismatch.

He highlighted that Haider’s last fight was against Krishnil Mudaliar, where he won on an eighth round stoppage.

Ratu indicated that he had knocked out Mudaliar in the first round when they fought last year.

“Like I said at home, one will die in the ring and I’ll show what I’m capable of in the ring. I will retire if I lose this fight but I will continue to challenge other boxers if I win the title.”

Ratu said he has been monitoring Haider’s fight and is aware of his weaknesses.

“I’m currently training at Nawaqabena village gym with my father (Saula Naicori), brothers Waisale (Ratu) and Joeli (Naleca),” he said.

“My relatives who are former boxers have been helping me in my preparations. They are Ioane Delaitabua, Tomu Gaunavou and Gaby Nimacere.” Ratu said as a boxer he has great respect for Haider.

“My message to him is not to underestimate me but I want to show him that this fight will be a top-notch battle,” he added.

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