Head Coach of CKB Eugene Bareman starts 'Walk Without Fear" Trust
Following the devastating loss of the late Liufau Vake due to a "coward punch" Eugene Bareman has established a new trust "Walk Without Fear" that aims to usher in an end to street violence.
The charity aims “To promote awareness of the devastating consequences of the one punch and coward punch attacks and other forms of social violence against victims and their families” says City Kickboxing owner and head coach, and Chairman of The Walk Without Fear Trust.
The trust was born following the tragic passing of 25-year-old Tongan mixed martial artist Liufau Vake who passed from injuries sustained from a coward punch attack in 2021.
Bareman remarked “Fau’s death was a devastating loss … This violent act should not be reduced to a faceless statistic, it’s a brutal reality, tearing the fabric of communities.”
“A coward's punch leaves no opportunity for victims to defend themselves and this has devastating consequences, in some cases life long disability or even death. It is an abhorrent crime that needs to be stopped immediately.”
The trust is dedicated to eliminating the tragic impact of street violence in New Zealand. It plans to achieve this by raising awareness, advocating for change and building a culture of respect.
The trust will work to educate the public about the devastating consequences of the one-punch assaults and other forms of social violence.
Additionally they will advocate for positive societal, cultural and legislative changes to not only prevent violence but to be proactive in promoting safety.
Furthermore the trust aims to foster a culture of respect and non-violence throughout New Zealand, fostering a safer environment for all.
Some may think it odd to see Bareman, an individual who is not only trained in combat sports but trains other fighters, carrying a message of anti violence. But Bareman says “nothing makes me more qualified to understand the power of violence. I understand more than most unsanctioned, meaningless violence causes tremendous harm to society.”
Two-time UFC champion Israel Adesanya spent countless hours training alongside Fau. He spoke to his teammate's tragic passing saying “our team has never been the same.”
He went on to express that from the grief of the tragedy, positive change must grow. “Fau’s death is a reminder of the tragic consequences of street violence. We can’t continue to allow this to happen.”
Liufau Vake’s older brother John Vake commented “There is a gaping hole where there should have been someone special. We stand with the Walk Without Fear Trust, and for every family shattered by violence.”
“Let’s ensure no brother, sister, child, or friend walks the same path of grief. Let Fau’s memory be a beacon, leading us towards a future where violence is not the answer, and respect, self-regulation and mana pave the way.”
- Written by Teherenui Koteka