March 7 | Fontainebleau, Las Vegas
Makini Manu made his long-awaited return to the Power Slap stage at Power Slap XII, and he made sure everyone remembered his name. With a dominant performance over Steven Rozzi, Manu improved to 4-0, proving once again that he belongs among the top super heavyweights in the world.
“Feels amazing,” Manu said post-fight. “Four and O sounds good. Feels good.”
After being away from competition for 13 months, Manu was eager to get back into the groove. However, he wasn’t expecting the absolute brick house that Steven Rozzi brought to the table.
“Man, he was huge,” Manu said. “We crossed paths in the NFL, but we never actually talked. I think he might even be on my highlight tape, but I’m not 100% sure.”
A More Composed, Calculated Makini Manu
Fans are used to seeing Manu bring the intensity and energy—whether it’s his warrior-like presence or his signature Haka. But this time, he was noticeably more composed.
“I did a little snippet of the Haka on stage, but that was more to get me ready,” Manu explained. “I came in to prove that I’m a top contender and that I deserve a shot at Dumpling or another top-ranked guy. I wanted to show confidence and professionalism, while still bringing the entertainment factor.”
And entertain he did. Every slap Manu delivered sent snot, mucus, and blood flying from Rozzi’s face—clear evidence of the devastating power behind each strike.
Rozzi’s Toughness Was No Joke
Despite the brutal strikes, Rozzi held on longer than expected, impressing Manu with his durability.
“I was actually surprised,” Manu admitted. “I had been practicing my left swing a lot, and I really believe if I had landed clean, it would’ve been game over. But he flinched, and I ended up hitting the top of his head instead. That hurt my wrist and elbow, so I had to switch to my right hand mid-fight.”
Even with the unexpected injury, Manu still managed to get the third-round knockout victory.
“I’ve been practicing both hands for over a year, so I was ready no matter what. But my left is faster and just as powerful. If that first shot landed clean, I think he was done.”
Rozzi, despite losing, earned Manu’s respect.
“Dude could hit,” Manu said. “My face actually hurt after the fight for the first time ever. I don’t have marks to prove it, but he had some solid strikes. I think he could be a contender if he sticks around. But after that fight? I don’t know if he’ll come back.”
Who’s Next for Makini Manu?
For Manu, there’s only one name that matters—Dumpling.
“That’s the fight I want,” he stated. “But at the end of the day, whoever they put in front of me, I’ll take.”
However, there are a few matchups he isn’t interested in:
🔹 Dwayne Crespo – “I don’t think he belongs in our division. He should go back down to heavyweight.”
🔹 The Hitman – “Doesn’t make sense. I beat Avion, and he lost to Avion.”
🔹 Kalani – “I hope we don’t fight, but if it happens, it happens.”
🔹 Danny – “No rematch unless it’s for the title.”
With four straight wins, Manu believes it’s his time to fight for the belt.
“I’ve done everything they’ve asked. I’ve proved myself. I deserve my shot.”
Final Thoughts
Thirteen months was too long for Manu to be away, but he’s back in a big way. And with a highlight-reel finish at Power Slap XII, it’s clear he’s ready for gold.
“I hope to be back soon. Live this time. I want my shot.”
💥 Power Slap XII – March 7th – Live from Fontainebleau, Las Vegas 💥
🔹 Is Makini Manu the rightful next challenger for the super heavyweight title?
🔥 Drop your predictions below! 🔥