Las Vegas, NV — Power Slap 16
Makini “Big Mac” Manu made it look flawless in the Power Slap 16 co-main event, defeating slap fighting legend The Dumpling in a dominant performance that showcased raw strength, composure, and heart.
“I feel great,” Manu said post-fight. “The preparation I did came in handy. Dumpling hits hard — but I hit harder. I had fun with it.”
The crowd erupted as Manu delivered one of the most controlled yet explosive performances of the night, earning respect from both fans and fighters alike — including a shoutout from Australian UFC veteran Tai Tuivasa, who shared the win on his story.
Breaking Down The Fight
Early on, The Dumpling mixed up his cadence, catching Manu off guard in the second round. For a moment, it looked like Big Mac might have been in trouble.
“I sucked my chin out in the first and second round,” Manu admitted. “I wanted to feel what it felt like to almost get knocked out. First round, I ate it. Second round, I felt it — and said, nope, not doing that again.”
After regrouping with his corner, Manu bit down and went right back to business in round three. Despite a flinch warning, his confidence never wavered.
“I was mad about it. I didn’t think I flinched — then I saw it and was like, yep, I definitely did,” he said with a laugh. “It didn’t hurt that much. I was ready for the next one.”
The Dumpling’s Toughness and Manu’s Power
Even when The Dumpling was rocked, his toughness showed. Manu thought he had closed the show when his opponent leaned forward, only to realize the fight wasn’t over.
“I saw him fall forward and thought he was out,” Manu said. “Did my little celly — then he tapped me on the shoulder and I was like, ah, dang. I didn’t knock him out, but I did stuff nobody else has done to him.”
That proved true. The Dumpling — known for being nearly unshakable — had never looked so rattled. Manu’s mix of athleticism and raw power overwhelmed one of the sport’s most durable competitors.
Flinch, Fight IQ, and The Win
While a flinch warning had fans nervous, the judges saw enough to give Manu the nod.
“I was hoping I’d get the victory,” he said. “I know I flinched, but I must’ve hit him hard enough to win that round anyway.”
Health Comes First — But Gold Is Next
Manu’s biggest opponent, however, might be his own body. The powerhouse revealed that he’d been struggling physically before the fight.
“I haven’t been able to walk for three weeks,” he revealed. “I finally found the problem — now I need to fix it. Get healthy, then a title shot. I’m pretty sure that’s next.”
Manu currently stands undefeated at 6–0, one win shy of setting a Power Slap record. A seventh straight victory would put him in a class of his own, surpassing current champion David DeBell’s record.
The Weight Journey
Manu also opened up about his long-term health goals.
“I plan on taking my health seriously because I don’t want to die young,” he said. “I’d prefer to be at 360 pounds — move better, feel better. That’s more important than the title shot.”
Even so, fans love Big Mac for who he is — a massive, charismatic powerhouse with knockout power and humility in equal measure.
Message To The Champion
When asked about a potential clash with The Hawaiian Hitman, the reigning super heavyweight champion, Manu didn’t mince words:
“Hey man, keep my belt warm,” he said with a grin. “Maybe they’ll put us up next — we’ll see what happens.”
What’s Next
After Power Slap 16, Makini “Big Mac” Manu’s stock has never been higher. A title fight feels inevitable — and fans can’t wait to see if the Big Mac Era officially begins.
“Can you get me fights? I need money,” Manu joked. “But really — I’m ready for whatever comes next.”