BY ELTON LONARATHA JNR
THE boxing communities in both Honiara and Australia are mourning the loss of Lemuel Silisia, the Solomon Islands’ first professional boxer, who passed away days after sustaining head injuries in a bout against Adam “The Flash Flood” on Saturday night at the Tamworth Clash of the Titans, held at the Tamworth Regional Entertainment and Conference Center (TRECC).
Silisia, 27, who had been living and working in Australia since 2021, fought for the World Boxing Foundation Australasian Super Lightweight Title in front of approximately 1,000 fans. Known as “The Destroyer,” Silisia faced a tough match and was defeated by Adam Flash via a unanimous points decision, with all three judges scoring the bout 77-74 in favor of Flash. Despite a third-round knockdown, Flash emerged victorious.
After the fight, Silisia was reported to be in critical condition at a Sydney hospital. On Sunday, his family members and coach, Jamie Carrol, shared that he was fighting for his life. Unfortunately, Silisia was declared medically dead on Wednesday evening after failing two brain tests, following three days on life support. He was surrounded by family members, fans, and followers during his final moments.
In a heartfelt online tribute, Silisia’s brother, Colson, confirmed the tragic news. “It is with deep sorrow that I share the heartbreaking news of the passing of our dear son, brother, friend, and father-to-be, Lemuel Silisia. After failing two brain tests, Lemuel was declared medically dead yesterday, July 9th (Wednesday SI Time). However, his brave heart continued to fight until it eventually ceased beating today at 5:24 PM, when he was called to be with the Lord Jesus Christ,” read Colson’s post.
Colson also mentioned that arrangements for the repatriation of Silisia’s body had begun, and he appealed for prayers to ensure a swift and smooth process to bring Silisia’s body back to the Solomon Islands for his final resting place.
Silisia’s coach, Jamie Carrol, expressed his deep sorrow, stating that the One2boxing Westside community in Tamworth is devastated. “He was a hero to all, including me. I miss him so much,” Carrol said. In an online tribute, Carrol shared his feelings, saying he had lost his best mate. “He was my idol and anyone who knows me knows Lems and how much he meant to me. Not for what he could do as a boxer, but for what he stood for as a human being. He had the most beautiful soul and always put others before him. Rest in peace, Brother. I love you,” Carrol posted.
A memorial service for Silisia will be held at Tamworth Baptist Church on the corner of Duri and Hiluvue Road tomorrow, with One2boxing members attending in full O2B gear. Additionally, One2boxing Westside will host a tribute and memorial prayer service at Papa Luigi’s Conference Center on Friday, August 2nd. “This will be a day for the O2B family to join with Lem’s family and friends, the boxing community, and the wider Tamworth Community to remember and pay respect to our beloved Lemuel,” reads a statement from One2boxing Westside.
The New South Wales (NSW) Boxing League also paid tribute to Silisia, honoring his contributions to the sport and his legacy.
