Australian heavyweight boxing champion, Justis Huni (23) who is of Tongan descent, is visiting Tonga for the first time to support and raise awareness of the sport among youths.

Justis expressed his joy to share his story and hopefully inspire youths, when he spoke In a press conference today at the Tanoa Hotel, in Nuku'alofa.

“I’m happy to share my story here and hopefully with the youths and kids here in Tonga will know that with anything they put their mind into, not just in boxing, they can achieve their goals, if they fully dedicate and fully back themselves 100%.”

Depsite his success, he always keeps himself grounded.

"My actions will always reflect back on my parents."

This is the first time Justis has visited Tonga following his recent wiin.

Manager, Michael Francis said that they want to see the sport develop in Tonga, like it is in Australia.

"We will be catching up with the boxing association tomorrow."

“The opportunity is here so it’s up to you guys, because we can only do so much.”

In 2016, Justis created history by being the first Australian/Tongan boxer to win the Gold Medal at the World Youth Championships in St Petersburg, Russia. 

Francis said, when turning professional in 2020, Justis once again created history by becoming the first person to win the Australian heavyweight title in his first bout. 

With a record now at 7-0, and ranked number 15 in the World with the World Boxing Organisation, some people believe Justis will be the next Heavyweight Champion of the World. As Justis's professional boxing career has flourished, he has shown an eagerness to get involved locally with the youth as well.

“Justis gives back to many organisations, but he has always had a soft spot for local communities and youth sports,” Francis said.

“While he encourages youth sports, he strives to ensure that kids know that it is not the only way out of a less than ideal situation. That’s why he promotes education and healthy living with so much of his youth sports support.

“The support has been overwhelming since we arrived and we appreciate it...this won’t be last time we visit Tonga,” he said.

Justis has a Tongan father, who migrated with his family when he was three-years old to Australia. His mother of Samoan and Dutch descent. Justice was born in Meadowbrook, Queensland, and started boxing at eight years of age.

Justic and his team also met with the Prime Minister Hon. Hu'akavameiliku.