Australian champ Tanaka “Tsabz” Saburi ready for a war against Islam

Tanaka Saburi takes on unbeaten prospect next

By Global Boxing News23 Oct 2026 · 3 min read

Tanaka “Tsabz” Saburi vs Joyful Islam

WA Junior Welterweight State Champion ready for another test as he takes on undefeated Joyful Islam at Metro City, Northbridge

Perth fight fans are in for another explosive night when Dragon Fire Boxing returns to Metro City in Northbridge on November 27 for the 56th edition of the iconic Thunderdome series.

One of the card’s most anticipated matchups will see Tanaka “Tsabz” Saburi, boasting a 4-1 professional record, take on undefeated prospect Joyful Islam, who enters the contest with a perfect 2-0 record.

Saburi, the WA Junior Welterweight State Champion, is determined to continue building his reputation in Australian professional boxing. While he has earned respect for his achievements so far, the talented fighter knows that every contest presents another opportunity to prove himself.

Ahead of the November 27 showdown, Saburi spoke openly about his opponent, his preparation and the ambitions driving him forward.

“First of all, I’ve got respect for Joyful Islam for stepping into the ring with me. Boxing is a tough sport, and anyone who is willing to put themselves through a training camp, make the sacrifices and get in that ring deserves a certain level of respect.

“At the end of the day, we’re both fighters, and we both understand what comes with this game. However, when that bell rings, respect goes out the window for those rounds, and it becomes about who has put in the work, who is mentally stronger and who can execute their game plan when it matters most.”

Saburi insists he will not underestimate the unbeaten Islam, recognising that the young fighter will arrive with his own ambitions and a plan to extend his winning record.

“I’m not the type of fighter who likes to underestimate anyone or look past an opponent. I know every fighter has their own strengths, their own style and their own reasons for wanting to win. So I’m approaching this fight with the seriousness it deserves.

“I’m studying what I need to study, working on my weaknesses and making sure I’m preparing myself to deal with whatever he brings on November 27. I want to be sharp, composed, intelligent and dangerous in that ring. I want to show that I can adapt, control the pace and make the right decisions under pressure.”

For Saburi, the matchup represents more than simply adding another victory to his record. Having already secured the WA Junior Welterweight State Championship, he believes his journey is only beginning.

“For me, this fight is also about continuing to establish myself in Australian professional boxing. I’ve worked hard to become the WA Junior Welterweight State Champion, and that achievement means a lot to me, but I don’t see it as the finish line.

“I see it as confirmation that the work I’ve been putting in is taking me in the right direction. Now I want to keep building on that foundation, take on challenges that push me forward and prove that I belong at an even higher level.”

With Islam undefeated and looking to make his own statement, Saburi expects a competitive encounter but is determined to leave the ring with his hand raised.

“I’m sure Joyful has his own plans for this fight, and I respect that. But I’ve got my own ambitions, and I’m not stepping into that ring just to participate. I’m stepping in there to win, perform to the best of my ability and make a statement.

“I want people watching to see the improvements I’ve made, the confidence I’ve developed and the level I’m working towards. I’m expecting a competitive fight, and I’m preparing accordingly.”

Despite the confidence, Saburi was quick to acknowledge the sacrifices involved in preparing for a professional contest, wishing his opponent well before making his intentions for fight night clear.

“Ultimately, I wish him a good camp, a safe preparation and the best of health leading into fight night. But come November 27, I’m focused on one thing: doing my job.

“I’ve got a team behind me, a vision I’m working towards and goals that extend well beyond this one fight. I respect the man, but once we’re in that ring, I’m there to compete, and I’m coming to show exactly what TSABZ is about.”

With a championship-winning fighter determined to keep progressing and an undefeated opponent eager to protect his perfect record, Saburi versus Islam shapes as a compelling addition to the Thunderdome 56 card.

Dragon Fire Boxing’s 56th Thunderdome instalment takes place Friday, November 27, at Metro City in Northbridge, with another big night of professional boxing expected.

THUNDERDOME 56 — EVENT DETAILS