UNBEATEN prospect Justis Huni looks to put the heavyweight scene on notice when he returns to the ring this Wednesday.
The 25-year-old will take on Shaun Potgieter at the Gold Coast Convention Centre in Queensland, Australia, featuring on the undercard of Jai Opetaia vs David Nyika.
In just 11 professional outings, Huni has cemented himself as one of the sport’s most promising talents, with the slick operator hoping to elevate his nation’s rapidly growing boxing scene.
Huni enjoyed a decorated amateur career, beating the likes of Olympic silver medallist Richard Torrez Jr and highly-touted countryman Teremoana Jnr before making his pro debut in 2020.
Before long, the Australian amassed five comprehensive victories ahead of the Tokyo Olympics, a tournament he was supposed to enter as a super heavyweight hopeful in 2021.
A hand injury, however, ultimately scuppered his return to amateur boxing, while also denying him the opportunity to exact revenge on two-time gold medallist Bakhodir Jalolov.
Still, Huni’s progression in the paid ranks has been nothing short of exemplary, with seasoned campaigners Andrew Tabiti and Kevin Lerena providing him with stern but calculated tests.
In both fights, the Brisbane-based technician showcased his refined footwork and sharp hand speed, boxing his way towards two unanimous decision victories after overcoming the odd spell of adversity.
His upcoming opponent, meanwhile, is gearing up for his first contest outside of South Africa, with ‘God’s Warrier’ seemingly remaining a fair distance away from living up to his moniker.
In fairness, though, Potgieter has suffered just one defeat in 11 fights, losing in the first round to Keaton Gomes before producing an 11th-round stoppage in their rematch last year.
But of course, Huni is nonetheless expected to take care of business in decisive fashion, putting himself in the shop window for a more meaningful showdown towards the end of this year.
And while he may not be the most physically imposing puncher in the land of the giants, it could be said that the fluid mover represents a nightmare for the majority of his bigger rivals, always utilising his speed and ring generalship to nullify any size disadvantage he is so often compelled to contend with.
