Mea Motu

Mea Motu is a distinguished New Zealand Māori professional boxer from Pukepoto, Te Tai Tokerau. She began boxing at the age of 13 and was a 5x National amateur champion as a young girl.

After some time away and having her five children, Motu returned to boxing and began her professional career at Peach Boxing. She has achieved remarkable success in the boxing world, holding more New Zealand national titles than any other Kiwi boxer, across three weight divisions.

In April 2023, she clinched the IBO World Super Bantamweight Championship and defended this belt two times. In January 2025, she fought Ellie Scotney in the UK for four World titles, attempting to make history to become the 1st Unified World Champion. Despite suffering her 1st defeat of her career, she carried herself with such mana and grace and represented Aotearoa stunningly on the world stage.

Beyond the ring, Motu’s life reflects resilience and determination. The mother of five survived eight years of horrific domestic violence and overcame significant personal challenges, including homelessness and health issues. Her journey from these adversities to becoming a world champion serves as an inspiration to many. Motu’s career continues to evolve, and she remains a prominent figure in the world of professional boxing as well as working as an ‘I Am Hope’ charity ambassador and spreading her message through the community.