A Cook Islands boxer’s first international campaign representing Australia in amateur tournaments has come to an end.

Pukapuka heavyweight Teremoana Jr Teremoana lost to Olympic bronze medallist Abner Teixeira da Silva Jr, of Brazil, in his second preliminary match of the 74th International Boxing Tournament Strandja in Bulgaria on Wednesday.

“Didn’t get the win tonight against an agile Brazilian, but very happy with what I’ve achieved against some of the best boxers in the world,” Teremoana told his supporters on social media.

“It has been a privilege and an honour to represent my family and my countries, Australia and the Cook Islands, on the world stage.”

Teremoana won his first Strandja preliminary match by judge’s decision against Georgia’s Nikoloz Begadze on Monday.

Australia entered the Strandja tournament with 24 boxers.

Day three of the amateur tournament saw four members of the team advance to the next round and five, including Teremoana, eliminated. Seven others were eliminated in previous days.

Teremoana also represented Australia at the 67th Bocskai Istvan Memorial International Boxing Tournament in Hungary earlier this month, overcoming Lithuania in his first fight but losing to Ukraine in his second.

“Not bad for a first time overseas, and also not bad for my first amateur fights back in five years.

“With everything leading up to this tournament, I’m very happy with my performance in these fights. I’ve learnt so much in this month about my strengths and flaws, and I’m looking forward to honing my craft even more as I get back to Australia.”

Teremoana began his Europe tour on February 3 and is scheduled to return to Australia on February 28.

“This is exactly what I needed, to mix it with the best, and I see myself coming out on top after critiquing a few things,” he said.

“I didn’t get the gold – but I gathered so much knowledge and experience along the way, which is priceless.

“I’ll be coming back for sure.

Teremoana further sharpened his skills at a week-long international training camp between tournaments, and even celebrated his 25th birthday while overseas.

“My first birthday being away from family, it hits a bit different. Celebrated it with the Australian boxing team, which is an experience I’ll never forget.”

Teremoana’s performances on his overseas tour will determine whether he is selected to represent Australia at the 2023 Boxing World Championships.

“Just want to say a massive thank you to everyone who has been tuning into my fights and supporting me from all over the world. It really gets me going, and I’m so humbled to have such an awesome support group.”

He also thanked those who had helped finance his trip.

“My experience has been such a blast thanks to you all.”

Teremoana has previously stated he hopes to one day represent the Cook Islands and bring home an Olympic or Commonwealth Games medal for the island nation.