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Shane Cameron: Tua, Tyson & a lifetime in the ring
Sport Nation • August 1st, 2026 7:00 am
Shane Cameron | Photo: Photosport
Former New Zealand heavyweight boxer Shane Cameron has opened up on the highs, heartbreaks and hard-earned lessons from a career that took him from a tiny East Coast farming community to some of the biggest fights in New Zealand boxing history.
Speaking live in studio on Sport Nation Afternoons to discuss his new autobiography Mountain Warrior, Cameron reflected on growing up in Tiniroto, leaving school at 13 years old, discovering boxing on an overseas experience in England and the resilience that shaped his life inside and outside the ring.
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The former Commonwealth Games medallist also revisited the devastating loss to David Tua, the career-defining victory over Monte Barrett, sparring with Mike Tyson, and why he believes setbacks ultimately fuelled his success.
Cameron said he hopes his story inspires others who struggled at school or doubted themselves, insisting hard work, resilience and a willingness to step outside your comfort zone can outweigh natural talent.
Listen to the extended interview below:
