A 27-year-old son of Samoa and IBF World Cruiserweight champion Jai Opetaia has been awarded the Gold Coast Sports Star of the Year.

The unbeaten world boxing champion was honoured with the evening’s top gong at the star-studded event held at the RACV Royal Pines Resort in Australia on Saturday night last week.

Jai reflected on the award in a post on social media, saying it is an achievement 'earned' and not 'given' adding that he was honored to receive the Gold Coast sports star of the year award.

"Crazy feeling to see my name up there with some of Australia’s biggest names but at the same time “it ain’t given, it’s earned," he said in his post.

"Thank you to my team who have always backed me @tasmanfighters @mathiewickedbodz @mbwboxa, we enjoyed the award night now let’s get back to work."

Other awards such as the Sports Stars of the Year went to freestyle swimmer Flynn Southam and wheelchair rugby player Ella Sabljak, while swimmer Elijah Winnington and rugby 7s star Maddison Levi shared the City of Gold Coast Mayor’s Award.  

Jai last visited Samoa towards the end of last year where he build a stronger connection to his Samoan roots through his family.

In an interview with the media at the time, Jai said that being in Samoa was "overwhelming" experiencing the warm welcome, recognition, respect, and support from the Samoan people since his arrival. 

He further added that he is making the most of his trip to connect with his Samoan roots and learn more about Samoan culture. 

With roots in Apia and Lalomanu as well as Aleipata, Jai told the media that his family is hosting a big feast for him on Monday, which is something he was looking forward to. 

"I was born and raised in Australia I am still learning my Samoan culture and it's very important to me," he said. 

"Every time I come I get in touch with my Samoan side and I get educated every time I come home, and I am looking to meeting the family and learning more about my roots because I've got Samoan blood running through my veins. 

"And I want to feel more at home every time I come here."

When asked if he would consider getting a traditional Samoan tattoo, Jai said: "I feel like it will be an honor to wear it but I feel like I need to get more in touch with my culture to deserve that sort of stuff and earn it. 

"I don't think I've earned it yet."

What about a matai title? "That is a conversation I need to have with my grandparents," he said. "They're the people I look up to and this stuff and if they tell me to do it then it's algood and I'll do it."