Boxer Tupuola Seua’i Ato Plodzicki-Faoagali has eyes on an Olympic medal and is not slacking off his training routine even when in Samoa for a week.

Tupuola secured a spot to represent Samoa at the 2024 Paris Olympics after an outstanding victory at the Pacific Games in November. He had turned professional last year but new eligibility rules allow professional boxers with two fights or less to compete in the Olympic Games.

The Australia-based Samoan boxer made sure that he continued with training knowing anything less would mean letting go of his Olympic aspiration.

At 25, this will be Tupuola's second Olympics representing Samoa. 

"It’s a great honour and another opportunity to represent Samoa once again at an Olympic Games," he said.

His relentless dedication and rigorous training regimen have undoubtedly contributed to his success. He revelaved his schedule includes three training sessions a day for the last three months. 

“You have to be very dedicated; it’s like an apprenticeship, like a craft. If you said you've mastered the craft, then you shouldn't be in this sport,” added Tupuola.

Tupuola trained with an ex-national Russian boxing coach earlier this year who had previously trained two world champions, one of whom was a current world champion. The coach had a proven track record of coaching successful fighters, with his previous student winning a bronze medal at the Olympics.

“I’ve been training with him - very good tips, and also training with my father. So, it's been a really good training camp so far,” said Tupuola.

Tupuola's journey to the Olympics has not been without challenges, particularly in terms of financial support. However, he has persevered and acknowledged the support of his sponsors, emphasising the significance of their contribution. 

Regarding his goals for the upcoming Olympics, Tupuola stated, "Like any athlete at the games, I’m aiming for gold, not just to participate. And I aim to achieve that by giving absolutely everything I’ve got.”

The Samoan athlete also conveyed a message to the people of Samoa, expressing his need for their support, stating, "Just need all your prayers and well wishes as I go out to fight for you again is all I ask." Additionally, he confirmed his category for the Olympics, declaring, "I will be fighting in the 92kg category."

His plans after the Olympics are to return to the ring as a professional boxer and continue to pursue his boxing career to the next level.

Samoa’s National Head Coach of Boxing Lionel Fatu Elika said he believes that Tupuola will do well in the Olympics. 

“It's pretty good, but then it all depends on the kid, the boxer. If he wants it that bad and I know Ato does,” said Elika.