(MARCH 29) A sad day in New
Zealand Boxing as “The Samoan Sniper” Kirsty Lupeamanu announces
her retirement due to a Pituitary Gland Tumour.
“As some of you may have known (not many) I have had a pituitary
tumour for almost 4 years now...I had been signed off to
boxing......however was not warned about possible bleeding in
the tumour or growth. …Unfortunately I have been medically
stopped to box...I was told if I continue, I face fatal
consequences” Kirsty announced on Facebook.
Hamilton’s own Lupeamanu, by day
is a full-time mum to Benton (12) and Cayden (6), but by night
she is a professional boxer. Lupeamanu had no amateur
experience, but has been undefeated in the corporate division,
main event two of her corporate bouts.
In April 2016, Lupeamanu debuted as a professional heavyweight
boxer against “The Tongan Princess” Nailini Helu. This bout
caused somewhat of a revolution, inspiring women to debut in
boxing, with 2016 seeing 8 heavyweight women debuting as
professionals. Now New Zealand has more female Heavyweight
professional boxers than any other country in the world.
These women can be considered pioneers for paving the way for
New Zealand women to begin their career and put their place in
the world. As for Lupeamanu in her career, she peaked at 9th in
the world, retiring at 11th and peaked at 2nd in New Zealand
rankings.
“I have boxed for almost 3 years
now for many reasons.... For one, to show my children that even
when things seem impossible...they aren't. Also, because I
found out I actually enjoy hitting people lol. In addition, I
did it to lose weight, and for Toni and her famil. But lastly,
to make my family proud and also my MTB family. I feel I can say
I have successfully completed this...shorter than my goal...to
be the champ.”
Lupeamanu dedicated her career to Toni Johnston who passed away
in 2014.
“I fought for my kids...family....and in the attempt to complete
a journey my boxing sister Toni Johnston would've completed ”I
can personally say that Kirsty is one of the nicest boxers that
you could ever meet. She always works hard and is a great mum to
her two kids. At the moment Lupeamanu is still discussing with
her family what the next move for her treatment is but we hope
for the best to Kirsty and send her lots of love.
“Dean and Trace...I could never ever repay you for all you have
done for me and my children. All the time and effort. I love you
both beyond words. Rangi and Winston...Thank you both so much.
MTB I'm still here just no defensive sparring lol Thanks to all
my fighters...I've had an amazing journey...Anita, Karina Ormsby,
Nailini, The beautiful Victoria Nansen, And the world champion
Alrie! Much love to all my MTB...I HOPE I MADE MTB PROUD”.
