PNG professional boxer Junior Kauko Raka is now in his final stages of training for this month’s fight against Vietnam’s Van Thao Tran. Raka fights in the super featherweight (59kg) category and has accepted the July 15 invitation from VSP Promotions at Ho Tram Resort and Casino in Vung Tau, Vietnam. The non-title fight depicts opportunities that Raka needs for increased ring time on the wider pro boxing space so that his profile gets more exposure than at present. Working this at the local level would be a cheaper option; however the lack of credible opponents is a continuous challenge for Junior Raka to gain the experience that he needs. Pro-box Media PNG promotion’s Martin Liri has thrown support behind Raka for this fight and others being sourced so that PNG professional boxers like Raka are provided increased opportunities than at present. Liri stated that Raka is a tough boxer, quite experienced despite his lack of fights in pro boxing arena and can develop into a better boxer with more fights against quality opposition. “Raka needs more opportunities like this where he can showcase his boxing talent on a more exposed space which at the same time fly the PNG flag on the world stage." “With the internet technology progressing at an unimaginable rate and various social media platforms picking up what’s happening throughout the world, one good show in the ring can get noticed elsewhere and PNG as a country can benefit by marketing our upcoming boxers through Raka." Liri further stated that Raka works hard, training young boxers, administering his local club Team Raka Boxing and at the same time manages his pro boxing career and is looking for sponsorship support. “He came through on a proper pathway program, off a commendable amateur career representing PNG and winning a South Pacific Games gold medal in New Caledonia in 2011 and now we need to support him to realize his full potential at the pro level.” The Vietnam promoter is covering Raka’s in-country costs and offered a decent purse by PNG standards but airfares for him and coaching team is being sourced through fund raising. “The momentum has picked up in Vietnam as well as they promote the Van Thao Tran-Raka fight and at present it is one of the fights on the program but if it becomes the main bout – that will mean we are getting better exposure.” Liri added that the plan is to spend some time in Philippines where Raka can get quality competition sparring against high class boxers from his weight division before Vietnam. “At present the best Raka can get in terms of competition sparring is against top PNG amateurs John Ume, Neville Warupi, Allan Oaike, Wani Palme – boxers who are preparing for the November Pacific Games.” “I have watched Raka against these heavier boxers who Keto swaps in terms of opponent and it is the best available preparation he can get under the circumstances." "He holds up pretty well which shows his toughness." Liri further extended thanks to PNG Boxing Union and Coach Mark Keto for the support.