Nelson boxing coach Dion Hall was enjoying having one promising fighter, but now having two at the same time brings all sorts of benefits.
“We are a team,” he says of 17-year-olds Lopeti Aiolupotea and Jack Dineen.
Dion took the Whakatu Boxing team of two to the South Island Novice Boxing Champs in Christchurch last month and they went unbeaten.
Lopeti scored a unanimous points decision over previously undefeated Dunedin super heavyweight boxer Te Ani Rakete in their youth grade clash.
Last year he was tipping the scales at 120 kilograms, but running and diet have seen him shed 20kgs.
“He is moving like a flyweight. Since dropping that weight, his work rate has improved,” enthuses Dion, after he took his career record to three wins from four bouts.
While Lopeti’s rival was taller and faster, he couldn’t cope with his direct punching.
It was a long day, as he had to wait until after eight o’clock to take to the ring for his one fight in Christchurch.
“I want to get down to 90kgs and fight as a heavyweight later in the year,” declares Lopeti, who is studying at NMIT.
Dion reckons that is achievable, and necessary too, as he is too short to be a super heavyweight long term.
Jack was having his first fights for the club after moving up from Kaikōura eight months ago.
“He knew his left from his right hand when he arrived and now he is throwing really good combinations in the ring,” says Dion.
‘Sparky’ the rangy apprentice electrician won both his U71kg contests and is now looking forward to showcasing his skills in his old home town next month.
“We went to Christchurch as a team. I could step back and let them do their own thing together outside the ring. Their energy keeps me motivated as well,” says Dion.
The pair also fits in extra training at Christine Gillespie’s Triple G gym in Richmond.
After Kaikōura, it is on to the South Island Golden Gloves in Blenheim, and the national champs in Wellington in September.
By then, Lopeti hopes to be competing in the heavyweight ranks.
