Kalani Vakameilalo just sent a message to the entire super heavyweight division — he’s ready for gold.
At Power Slap 18, the #4-ranked contender delivered a composed, powerful performance against Casey Stephens, proving once again why he’s one of the most dangerous athletes in the sport.
And now, the question is simple:
Is a title shot next?
Kalani Vakameilalo vs Casey Stephens: Statement Made
Coming into the matchup, Casey Stephens brought serious hype:
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SFC Super Heavyweight Champion
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Elite-level arm wrestler
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Widely considered one of the strongest competitors in Power Slap
But Kalani Vakameilalo didn’t flinch.
“I felt like it went great.”
Despite the noise surrounding Stephens’ strength and credentials, Vakameilalo stayed focused — and delivered.
“I Ate That”: Vakameilalo Handles Stephens’ Power
One of the biggest storylines heading into the fight was simple:
Could Kalani take Casey’s power?
The answer?
Yes — emphatically.
“I ate that… out of all the slaps I’ve had, this one was probably the most.”
Even against one of the strongest strikers in the sport, Vakameilalo showed durability, composure, and confidence.
And while he acknowledged Stephens’ power…
“He hit me pretty hard.”
…it was clear it wasn’t enough to shake him.
The Real Difference: Mentality Over Strength
While many pointed to athleticism as the deciding factor, Vakameilalo made it clear what truly separated him on the night:
His mindset.
“I already knew I was going to win.”
That belief — combined with experience and preparation — continues to make him a serious problem in the division.
“I always had that chip on my shoulder.”
Coaching Edge: Adjustments That Paid Off
Vakameilalo also credited Robert Trujillo for helping refine key aspects of his game, particularly:
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Stance
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Defensive positioning
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Taking shots more effectively
“He helped me a lot with my stance and everything with taking a hit.”
Those adjustments were evident in his performance — especially against a high-level opponent like Stephens.
Fighting for Something Bigger
Beyond rankings and titles, Vakameilalo revealed his deeper motivation:
“I just did that for my daughter.”
That purpose continues to drive his performances — and adds another layer to his relentless mindset.
“I don’t want nobody to take that away from me.”
Ready for Anyone — Ranked or Not
Vakameilalo didn’t hesitate to take on a dangerous newcomer like Stephens — and he made it clear that won’t change moving forward.
“I’ll go against anybody they put me against.”
Whether it’s a rising prospect or a top-ranked contender, he’s ready.
Is a Title Shot Next?
With another dominant performance under his belt, Kalani Vakameilalo is firmly in the title conversation.
But true to his personality, he’s not calling anyone out.
“It’s whoever they put in front of me.”
Still, make no mistake — he knows what’s coming.
And the division knows it too.
Super Heavyweight Division on Notice
Kalani Vakameilalo continues to:
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Stack wins
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Handle elite-level power
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Show championship composure
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Stay grounded and focused
He may not be the loudest name in the division…
…but he might be the most dangerous.
And after Power Slap 18:
A title shot feels closer than ever.