Top drawcards to free Nujoma tribute event

Boxing
Mariud Ngula
The MTC Nestor ‘Sunshine’ Tobias Boxing and Fitness Academy has announced a tribute event – free to spectators – to honour the late founding president Sam Nujoma, who had been a patron of the academy since its inception.

Set to take place on 12 April at the Ramatex Hall in Windhoek’s Otjomuise area, the event is co-sponsored by PstBet and will feature three continental title fights.

The main card, featuring more undercard fights yet to be announced, is set to start at 18:00.

Among the key bouts, Mateus “The Beast” Heita – ranked 13th in the world by the WBO – will look to retain his undefeated record of 14 wins (nine by knockout) as he defends his WBO Africa featherweight title against South Africa’s Abdulazi Kunert (12-3-1, three knockouts).

In another highly anticipated bout, super middleweight Paulinus “John John” Ndjolonimus – ranked fourth in the world by the WBO – will defend his WBO Africa title and his 19-fight unbeaten record (17 KOs) as he takes on South Africa’s Snamiso Ntuli (8-5-1, four KOs).

The night’s main event will see world-level super bantamweight contender Fillipus “Energy” Nghitumbwa – ranked ninth by the WBO – face Zimbabwe’s Hassan Milanzi (13-3-1) in a bid to retain his WBO Africa title. Nghitumbwa boasts a record of 17 fights, with 15 wins, 13 of which came by knockout and two losses.



Nujoma’s impact on boxing

At a press conference held at the sports ministry’s office yesterday, promoter Nestor Tobias reiterated the impact of the late Founding Father, Sam Nujoma, on the boxing community.

“Under the Founding Father’s leadership, young boxers always received blessings, advice and motivation,” Tobias said.

He explained that the “Tribute to His Excellency Dr. Sam Shafiishuna Nujoma Boxing Bonanza” aims to educate the younger generation.

“Sometimes, the youth don’t understand where we come from. It’s important to know your history and understand how we got to where we are today.”

Tobias also reflected on the struggles of the past, noting that Nujoma fought for the country and its people.

“When I was an amateur boxer, I couldn't participate in the Olympic Games because of apartheid. But now, young people have the opportunity to compete in the Olympics and strive to become world champions. We should appreciate leaders like the Founding Father, who fought for this country,” he said.

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Namibian Sun 2025-03-14

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