Traditional boxing, which is called “Etu” in the local language, is one of the cultural attractions in the Nagekeo region. It is performed as a form of gratitude for the harvest. Etu is performed during the day in an arena surrounded by a wooden fence to limit the audience. The only fighters allowed to enter the arena are men and some people as bodyguards of the two fighters.
Fighting is done according to the ability of both fighters, by not determining the number of rounds in one fight. Both fighters do not wear iron or other metal shields like gladiators but only cloth wrapped around the chest held by the bodyguard and a specially designed tool that is clenched in the hand. The tool is hard enough that when it hits the fighter’s face it will cause cuts and bleeding.
Usually, Etu is performed in June and July every year. In addition, Etu is also an integral part of Nagekeo’s centuries-old customs.