[1][2][3] Papuni is a former New Zealand national Light Heavyweight champion when he defeated Sam Rapira for the title in October 2014.

In October 2014, Papuni took on one of his biggest rivals of his careers, Sam Rapira for the New Zealand national (NZNBF version) Light Heavyweight title on a Joseph Parker undercard,[11] promoted by Duco Events.

In June 2015, Papuni took on Trent Broadhurst for the vacant WBA Oceania Light Heavyweight title.

[20] In September 2019, Papuni took on Samoan boxer Tony Iapesa at Horncastle Arena in Christchurch.

[22] Papuni joined Robert Berridge, Sefo Falekaono and Brad Riddell in the tournament.

[31] In September 2016, Papuni took on Faris Chevalier for the ANBF Australasian Super Middleweight title.

After three years from being away from the ring, Papuni took on Blake Caparello for the WBA Oceania Light Heavyweight title.