Wurundjeri Elder gifts traditional fur to boxing world champion

American Devin Haney became the undisputed lightweight boxing champion after his bout against George Kambosos Jr on Sunday night.

Aunty Joy leans her head on devin haney's shoulders which bear a possum pelt as they both hold his new title belt.

Aunty Joy Wandin celebrates with the newly-crowned champion Devin Haney. Source: Twitter: Brendan Bradford

He's known as 'The Dream', and several of his came true on Sunday night.

Lightweight boxer Devin Haney fought against Australian George Kambosos Jr at Melbourne's Marvel Stadium, and was declared the "undisputed" lightweight world champion by a unanimous vote from the judges.

But his prizes weren't limited to the champion's belt and the glory of No. 1 status.

Aunty Joy Wandin, who provided the Welcome to Country for the fight, was to give the American boxer a deeply significant parting gift.

In video footage, Haney can be seen delightedly calling out "Aunty!" to the Wurundjeri Elder as she enters his locker room to congratulate him on his win.
His joy turned to genuine surprise as Wandin placed a traditional possum fur around his shoulders in recognition of his victory.

The honours showered on the freshly-crowned champion didn't stop there, however. Ms Wandin bestowed the highest of tributes upon Haney.

“He’s known as The Dream, but I said ‘You’re now the dream of this country too’ because we’ve adopted him.”

Kambosos was no match for the undefeated American, who repeatedly peppered the Aussie star with well-directed jabs throughout the 12-round contest.

The judges scored the one-sided bout 116-112 x 2, 118-110, handing Haney the championship.

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Published 6 June 2022 3:57pm
Updated 6 June 2022 4:01pm
By Dan Butler
Source: NITV News


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