THE much-anticipated 26th Fiji Bitter Nawaka 7s has attracted all top local teams to battle for the top prizemoney of $10,000.
Tournament organiser Mataiasi Nabau has confirmed the tournament would also showcase top 7s players.
He said more than 50 teams had already booked their spot with the remaining 14 teams to register this week.
Defending champion and high-flying Westfield Barbarians with the guidance of fitness guru Epeli Lagiloa will spearhead the western team in their bid to win the lucrative prizemoney.
The Nadi-based team has been boosted with the inclusion of Natabua's playmaker Sunia Talebula, the elder brother of former national 7s rep Metuisela Talebula.
Nabau said the defending champion would face an uphill battle.
He said top teams from Nadroga such as Ratu Filise and Western Force had confirmed their spot.
"We are anticipating a tough battle from all top teams during the tournament and surely fans will be treated to some of the best 7s action," said Nabau.
"Western Force will have the services of top Nadroga players like Mitieli Nacagilevu, Iliesa Ratuva, Etonia Naba and Aisea Natoga.
"The defending champions Westfield Babas will be also a tough nut to crack as they will want to defend their title.
"We are not counting the Suva giants out as they will be out to prove their worth against the best in the west.
"This year's tournament will be much bigger compared to last year."
Nabau said talks were still in progress to include the national Digicel 7s team for the tournament.
"This will be the only big tournament before the Hong Kong 7s and we are inviting the Fiji 7s team to battle against the top local teams.
"We will also have Seru Rabeni's Nasolo Young Boys team from Bua and Ilivasi Tabua's Dritabua side from Tailevu."
Nabau said the tournament would be officially launched on Thursday with the two-day event to kick off on March 1 at Prince Charles Park.
He also thanked Paradise Bevarages for its continued support in sponsoring the tournament.
Nabau said the sponsors gave $25,000 for the tournament with first runner-up to receive $3000.
He added a mini Nawaka 7s would be held this weekend in Nadi to bolster the upcoming Fiji Bitter Nawaka 7s on March 1.