When Kalani Vakameilalo steps back onto the Power Slap stage at Power Slap 18, he’ll be competing with something new driving him.
Fatherhood.
The powerful striker returns after nearly a year away to face SFC champion Casey Stevens, a matchup that pits one of Power Slap’s most dangerous competitors against one of the most experienced slappers outside the promotion.
For Vakameilalo, the motivation is simple.
“I have a baby now… I gotta provide for this little tiny human that looks just like me.”
A New Motivation: Fatherhood
Life has changed dramatically for Vakameilalo since fans last saw him compete.
Now a father, he says the responsibility of providing for his newborn has given him even more motivation to perform.
And in Power Slap, that motivation often translates directly into opportunity.
“I gotta pay for diapers and everything, so I really need that paycheck right now.”
While fighters often speak about legacy and titles, Vakameilalo is refreshingly honest about what drives him: taking care of his family.
A Tough Opponent in Casey Stevens
Power Slap didn’t give Vakameilalo an easy return fight.
Instead, he’s matched with Casey Stevens, a veteran slap fighter and champion from Slap Fight Championship (SFC) who brings years of experience into the bout.
Vakameilalo knows exactly what he’s facing.
“I give him a lot of respect.”
He’s already watched plenty of footage, including Stevens’ well-known matchups — even against former UFC heavyweight champion Tim Sylvia.
“He’s nobody to take lightly.”
Training While Raising a Baby
Preparing for a Power Slap fight isn’t easy — and it’s even harder when you’re juggling life with a newborn.
Vakameilalo admits most of his time right now revolves around caring for his child.
Still, he’s sticking to the same core training approach that carried him through previous fights.
His routine includes:
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Football-style strength training
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Weightlifting
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Running when possible
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Staying physically prepared between fights
“Most of my time is spent taking care of my baby.”
Even with limited time, Vakameilalo believes his natural athleticism and physical conditioning will carry him through.
Experience Against the Best
Vakameilalo isn’t new to high-level competition in Power Slap.
His résumé already includes matchups against some of the biggest names in the sport:
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Da Crazy Hawaiian
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Dane Viernes
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Lorenzo Florian
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Colin Balo
With a 3–1 record, he’s proven he can compete at the top of the division.
Still, he views Stevens as a different kind of challenge.
“He’s a unique challenger.”
Stevens’ background in competitive arm wrestling could also present a unique dynamic when it comes to raw striking strength.
The Chip on His Shoulder
Vakameilalo says his loss to Da Crazy Hawaiian still motivates him today.
Since that fight, he’s carried a constant urge to prove himself again every time he steps onto the stage.
“Ever since I lost to the crazy Hawaiian, I’ve had this chip on my shoulder.”
Now, with fatherhood adding extra motivation, that drive has only intensified.
Fighting With Respect
Despite the intense nature of slap fighting, Vakameilalo maintains a calm and respectful mindset toward his opponents.
He believes every competitor deserves the same respect — regardless of their status.
“I don’t got hate for nobody in this sport.”
It’s a mindset he says comes from how he was raised.
“Treat the CEO the same as the janitor.”
What Happens If He Wins?
A victory over Casey Stevens could put Vakameilalo right back into the conversation for big matchups in the heavyweight division.
There’s even been talk of potential Power Slap events in Hawaii, which could open the door to major island vs. island matchups — including a possible clash with Da Crazy Hawaiian’s brother.
Vakameilalo didn’t shy away from the idea.
“I would avenge that.”
The Rise of the Island Warriors
One of the most fascinating developments in Power Slap right now is the growing presence of fighters from Pacific Island backgrounds.
From Hawaiians to Tongans and Samoans, the sport has seen an influx of powerful competitors from the islands — many with similar warrior mentalities.
Vakameilalo believes those matchups are inevitable.
And they could define the division for years to come.
Power Slap 18: A Big Opportunity
When Vakameilalo steps onto the stage at Power Slap 18, he won’t just be fighting for rankings or recognition.
He’ll be fighting for his family.
And if his track record is any indication, fans can expect the same thing they’ve seen every time he competes.
Power.
“Just get ready Casey… I’m ready to bring everything I got.”