Heavyweight boxer Lance Clark is poised to make his debut in Fiji at the ZEG Kings Boxing event tomorrow, where he will face Senivalati Ratu in the heavyweight division. This marks an exciting milestone for Clark, who has transformed his life from a past overshadowed by gang involvement to channeling his energy into boxing.
Once caught in the cycle of gang life, Clark found a mentor in veteran coach Grady Stewart. Stewart, known for training UFC Hall of Famer Ken Shamrock and World Heavyweight Champion Lucas “Big Daddy” Browne, saw the potential in Clark and motivated him to realize his potential in a positive way. Clark committed himself wholeheartedly to his training, dedicating countless hours each day to perfecting his boxing skills and engaging in rigorous CrossFit workouts.
Reflecting on his journey, Clark shared, “For me it started a long time ago when my uncle used to teach me a few things, but now he has passed away. In terms of experience, I had a little bit but not the right way.” This personal history fuels his passion and dedication to the sport.
There was a significant shift in Clark’s life when he turned to Christianity during a five-year prison sentence, allowing him to redirect his anger and aggression into boxing, a sport that has now become a transformative outlet for him. He aims to use his life experiences to inspire other young people, particularly those at risk of being drawn into gang culture, showing them that it’s possible to turn one’s life around through determination and hard work.
The upcoming Kings Boxing Promotions event is set to begin at 5 PM at the Vodafone Arena in Suva, showcasing not just Clark’s fight but a range of boxing talents. The excitement resonates through the local community, reflecting the growing interest and support for boxing in Fiji. With the live coverage available on viti.plus, fans will have the opportunity to engage with the sport and support their local fighters as they strive to carve out their places in the boxing landscape.
Clark’s story is a testimony to the potential for change and the power of sports to uplift and motivate individuals, illustrating that even those with challenging pasts can find a path to redemption and success. This event symbolizes hope and encouragement for both Clark and aspiring boxers in Fiji, as the sport continues to flourish, nurturing talents and fostering community spirit.