Power Slap champion Dayne Viernes may not have been competing at Power Slap 20, but that didn’t stop him from making the trip to Las Vegas.
The reigning champion attended the event at The Chelsea and spent the evening taking in the atmosphere, reconnecting with the promotion, and evaluating what could come next in his career.
And while Viernes remains eager to get back on stage, he admitted that a short break could be in the cards before his next appearance.
“I want to take a break and then I might prepare myself for the next one.”
Still, the competitive fire clearly remains.
“I’m looking for the next one.”
Enjoying the Power Slap 20 Atmosphere
For Viernes, attending Power Slap 20 was about more than just watching fights.
The Hawaiian star wanted to experience the new venue, see Dana White, and continue supporting the sport as it continues to grow.
“I wanted to see the event. I wanted to see Dana White as well.”
Overall, he was impressed with what he saw.
“I loved it.”
Although he did joke that he’d like to see more interaction among athletes and attendees in the future.
“We need more mingling.”
Could a Dumpling Rematch Happen in Serbia?
When discussing future opponents, several names were brought up, including Kalani and Juicy Finau.
However, the matchup that appeared to excite Viernes the most was a rematch against Dumpling.
And not just anywhere.
“Maybe rematch with Dumpling in Serbia. That’d be cool.”
While some questioned whether Dumpling deserves another shot after their previous meeting ended with controversy surrounding a foul, Viernes didn’t dismiss the possibility.
In fact, he seemed excited by the idea of traveling overseas and defeating him in front of a hometown crowd.
“I would love to just knock him out, especially in his own country.”
Fortunately, logistics wouldn’t be an issue.
“I got everything good. Passport, everything.”
Going Back to the Drawing Board
Although he remains confident in his abilities, Viernes says he continues looking for ways to improve.
He acknowledged learning valuable lessons from recent performances and plans to revisit every aspect of his preparation before returning.
“I’m trying to go back to the drawing board and practice all bases.”
The goal is simple:
come back better than ever.
“Really come out firing on my next one.”
Looking for a Real Test
One thing that stood out during the conversation was Viernes’ desire for a challenging matchup.
He isn’t interested in carefully selecting opponents or taking easy fights.
Instead, he wants the kind of battle that pushes both competitors to their limits.
“I’m just looking for a good match.”
In fact, he openly admitted that part of the appeal is testing himself against someone capable of delivering serious power.
“I’m trying to look for a big hit.”
Whether he’s the one delivering it or receiving it, Viernes wants the kind of matchup that creates memorable moments.
Why Fighting Fellow Polynesians Is Difficult
When names like Kalani and Juicy Finau were mentioned as possible opponents, Viernes admitted there’s an emotional side to those matchups.
While he’d take the fights if necessary, competing against fellow Polynesian athletes isn’t something he particularly enjoys.
“It kind of hurts me in my heart.”
The same feeling applied when Juicy Finau’s name was brought up.
“That’s another Uso.”
Despite the respect, Viernes understands those matchups may eventually become unavoidable as the division continues to evolve.
Could the Viernes Family Grow in Power Slap?
One of the more interesting revelations from the interview involved Dayne’s younger brother.
According to Viernes, his brother has already been reaching out in hopes of earning a Power Slap opportunity and has even tasted success in slap fighting competitions back home.
“He did one in Hawaii and he ended up winning.”
If it happens, it could create one of the most unique family stories in Power Slap history, with three brothers potentially competing in the promotion.
“I’d love to see my younger brother in there.”
Keeping Family Accountable
Viernes also provided an update on his older brother, acknowledging that there have been challenges outside of competition.
However, he emphasized the importance of surrounding themselves with positive influences and holding one another accountable.
“We got to keep each other accountable.”
For Viernes, family remains one of the driving forces behind everything he does.
“I want to set the example.”
The Champion Is Waiting
Whether it’s Kalani, Dumpling, Juicy Finau, or someone else entirely, Dayne Viernes appears ready for whatever comes next.
A short break may happen first, but the reigning champion is already thinking about future opponents, future title defenses, and future challenges.
And if the opportunity arises in Serbia?
It sounds like Viernes would happily stamp his passport once again and handle business on the international stage.