Brothers of MMA fighter Fau Vake killed in attack still struggling with death

Author: Te Ao Māori News

We all know Fau Vake, who was brutally murdered on the streets of Tāmaki Makaurau more than a year ago. He is an elite fighter, a member of the City Taekwondo Gym and a close friend of Kai Kara-France.

His two brothers, John and James Vake, travelled to Perth for the Eternal 68 mixed martial arts competition over the weekend.

Kay told them about the Commonwealth Games (John represented Tonga in wrestling), their fights and their beloved brother Fau before they left.

Both said their brother’s death was difficult to deal with and they were still accepting the loss.

“It’s been tough, but I think the takeaway from it is that it helps us get stronger,” James said.

“I just feel like, in all these experiences, I’m really not afraid of anything. I feel like it’s such a big hurdle to get over that to go out there and play this Saturday like there’s nothing.”

“I don’t feel pressure. I feel like I’ve been under enough pressure,” he said.

John said he was grateful that their friends and loved ones continued to inspire them.

“It used to be, to say rough is an understatement. I feel like we’ve been to hell and back.”

“But if anything, I’m really grateful to my team, people like you, my friends, my family, people I love,” John said.

“I feel like what happened a year ago and I’m never over. I feel like every day is that day. But I just keep the people closest to me around so I can keep getting hit and keep investing in me The best front foot.”