An 18 year old village boy from Samoa who sold ulas on the streets of Apia to make a living has been crowned World Fire Knife champion.
Vaela'a Iloa outclassed the defending champion from Hawaii to win the title at the annual fireknife competition in American Samoa.
Vaelaa learned to dance with fire three years ago at the Siva Afi centre in Matautu tai Apia.
His prize money of 7,000 Samoan tala or just over 2, 700 US dollars will be used to remodel his family's home.
