FORMER Fiji boxing manager John Ramos says Fiji has lost one of its favourite boxing sons in Joe Dawai.
The former Fiji light heavyweight boxer was laid to rest at Narewa Village in Ra last Saturday after passing away at the Colonial War Memorial Hospital last week.
Ramos said Dawai was a very clever boxer.
Dawai joined Ramos Boxing Club in 1978 from Sunia Cama's YMCA Gym.
He trained under Ramos' management in 1979 when he fought Australian light heavyweight Al Gattling of Queensland at the Deuba Resort in Pacific Harbour under the Fiji Boxing Council banner.
The late Ra boxer defeated Gattling on points.
The program was the first of its kind to be staged on a resort ground in Fiji under Ramos' plan which was watched by over 1000 fans.
Ramos said Dawai was a boxer with a lot of skills.
"Joe was a very clever boxer with good ring craft.
"He always threw effective punchers on opponents a good timing puncher always ready to avoid getting hit a good science of boxing skills," he said.
"Joe also was a good listener with good work ethic and a top light heavyweight contender in Fiji.
"He was a very respectable to Ramos club members and also to Ramos family. He was jovial."
"I send our deepest sympathy from Vancouver to his loved ones, our prayers are with them.
"So long champ, rest in peace," Ramos added.