Why Drua? Ravula Reveals

Many know Isaiah Armstrong Ravula, 19, as the nephew of star All Blacks and Crusaders first-five eighth Richie Mo’unga.

However, only a few know that the Fijian Drua newcomer is the grandson and namesake of one of the country’s toughest light heavyweight boxer the late Aisea Ravula.

Despite being short for a light heavyweight boxer, Aisea who fought out of the Byrnes camp in Lautoka, shocked the region when he knocked out the feared Samoan heavyweight boxer Fossie Schmidt.

The Swire Shipping Fiji Drua’s No.10 told SUNsports, that the story of his late grandfather inspired him to be part of the side.

It was at his grandfather’s funeral in Lautoka in 2011, that he decided to have Ravula tattooed on his left hand.

“This tattoo has a lot of significance, it is special as it plays a big part in the decisions I make,” he said.

“I was approached by some Super Rugby clubs in New Zealand after I played for the Fiji Under-20 at the U20 World Rugby Championship in South Africa and while playing for Manawatu in the NZ National Provincial Championship.

“I chose Drua because this tattoo is special to me.

This tattoo is who I am.

“There was a lot of work behind the scenes with my agent and family, which ended up, with me choosing the Drua and I’m pretty happy with that.

“The iTaukei culture matters to me.

“The culture connects me to my family.

It’s awesome.

Ever since I’ve come in my relatives and family have treated and looked after me; I am grateful for everything.

I made the right decision to be here.”

With the support, bond and connection Ravula is anxious to play in the Shop N Save Super Rugby 2024 competition.

“I’m pretty excited, you know to play alongside some of the players I’ve looked up to, is pretty cool.

“It’s cool because, you know; we train hard and play hard to the end of the day.

We know how tight the group is, really connected, strong brotherhood.”

“It has been eye-opening like you know; the systems are different everywhere in the world.

To be here has made me realise that it’s not just about rugby.

It’s about you, family life and faith.”

Ravula was born in Christchurch, NZ.

He is from Korotolu, Moce in Lau while his mum is Mo’unga’s older sister.

His family moved to Ipswich, Brisbane when he was five attending primary and semi-secondary there.

They moved back to NZ when he was 16 and attended St Andrew’s College in Christchurch.

“I grew up playing rugby league and only started playing union when I was like 13,” he said.

“I’ve lived in Australia most of my life.

So when I’m in NZ I’m looked at as an Aussie and when I’m in Aussie I’m looked at as a Kiwi.

“I am now connected to where I am from and belong.”

Feedback: waisean@fijisun.com.fj