Boxing Hall of Famer David Tua Gifts Medal and Belt to Prime Minister

By Jeannie Penehuro/

Apia, SAMOA – 15 May 2026 – Samoan Boxing Hall of Famer, To’aletai Faumuina David Tua, has gifted the World Boxing Organization (WBO) belt and medal awarded to him by the Indiana Boxing Hall of Fame to Prime Minister La’aulialemalietoa Leuatea Polataivao Fosi Schmidt.

“This gift is to honour the efforts and the legacy of the late Polataivao Fosi Schmidt and others they left behind,” Tua said.

To’aletai told Talamua that he could never forget Polataivao Fosi Schmidt, who is Prime Minister Laauli’s late father, who was himself a Samoan and South Seas Champion is his prime and others who supported the sport’s development in its early days.

Born at Faleatiu village next to the Faleolo Airport, To’aletai David Tua moved to New Zealand with his parents at a young age, where his talent led to an international career that have been celebrated for his outstanding contribution to the sport on the global stage.

Tua’s legacy as one of the most formidable heavyweight fighters of his era was further recognized through a special ceremony where he was inducted into the Indiana Boxing Hall of Fame in Florida early this month.

He commended the Prime Minister’s unwavering support, not only for boxing but across all sports, recognizing his dedication to nurturing sporting talent in Samoa.

La’aulialemalietoa Leuatea Polataivao Fosi Schmidt, who is the patron of the Marist Boxing Club, also saluted Tua for his legacy and now that he is personally assisting with the development of young Samoan boxers.

To’aletai offered words of encouragement to young athletes, urging them not to be deterred by their circumstances.

“No matter the challenges, you can still succeed and realize your dreams. If I can do it, so can you. But I want the next generation to be even better than me.”

He emphasized the importance of striving for excellence, likening the aspirations of young athletes to the universal desire of fathers for their children to surpass them.

“Every father wants his son to be better than himself,” To’aletai said, reflecting his hopes for Samoa’s young boxers.