Heavyweight Boxing
Brisbane, Australia - Unbeaten Australian heavyweight prospect Justis Huni (11-0, 6 KOs) closed out an impressive 2024 campaign with a commanding second-round stoppage of Argentina’s Leandro Daniel Robutti (11-7, 8 KOs) at Fortitude Music Hall in Brisbane, Queensland. The 25-year-old displayed his superior skill and speed against the overmatched Robutti, signaling his readiness for bigger challenges in the year ahead.
Despite giving up significant weight and height advantages—nearly 30 kilograms and a few inches in reach—Huni controlled the bout from the outset. His slick footwork, precise feints, and accurate right hand set the tone in the opening round. Robutti briefly surged with aggression in the final moments of the first, swinging wildly in an attempt to unsettle Huni. However, Huni’s composure and defensive sharpness rendered the assault ineffective.
The second round showcased Huni's ability to shift gears. Coming off his stool with renewed determination, the Australian unleashed a clinical attack. A well-timed right hand staggered Robutti, and a follow-up flurry culminated in a left hook to the body, sending the Argentine to his knee. Uninterested in continuing, Robutti stayed down, prompting the referee to wave off the fight just over a minute into the second round.
This dominant win caps off a year in which Huni steadily climbed the heavyweight rankings, including a notable victory over Kevin Larena in Saudi Arabia back in March. A bronze medalist at the 2019 amateur world championships, Huni has shown consistent growth as he inches closer to contention on the global stage.
Speaking post-fight, Huni expressed satisfaction with his performance and his intent to stay active:
“Round one was just a feeling-out process to see what he’d bring,” Huni told Tasman Fighters. “He gave it his all at the end of round one, and then in round two I pretty much had to finish the job and got it done.”
Looking ahead, Huni hinted at an exciting opportunity in early 2025:
“I think I’ve got a big chance of being on Jai Opetaia’s card [on January 8], which is massive for me – the homecoming for the cruiserweight king. To be a part of that is massive for my career and for me moving forward.”
For Huni, the focus remains on staying busy and honing his craft as he builds toward more significant fights. He’s aware of the importance of momentum in a crowded heavyweight division and is eager to seize opportunities on the big stage:
“For myself, I’ve gotta stay as busy as I can and build my record up. When those big fights come, I’ll be prepared and ready to jump in and bang with the best.”