Ambunda triumphant

Paulus Ambunda proved that he still has what it takes when he put up a spectacular performance in Singapore on Saturday.
Jesse Kauraisa
JESSE JACKSON KAURAISA



Namibia's Paulus Ambunda shon as he beat Muhamad Ridhwan after split-decision in Singapore on Saturday.

Local professional boxer Muhamad Ridhwan suffered the first defeat of his pro career when he lost an International Boxing Organisation (IBO) super bantamweight (up to 55kg) world title on Saturday night at the Sands Expo & Convention Centre.

The 30-year-old was bested by Namibia's Paulus Ambunda via split decision after going the full 12 rounds with the experienced fighter.

Prior to the fight, Ambunda boasted a record of 26 wins and just two losses.

The 38-year-old is a former IBO and World Boxing Organisation world champion, and was the toughest test in Ridhwan's burgeoning career.

Ridhwan had 11 wins in 11 fights before last the fight.

Paulus Natangwe 'The Rock' Ambunda is guided by a remarkable sense of humour and a disciplined approach to life.

His friendly smile and shyness when speaking in front of the camera is just another part of him that hides the tremendous deadly punch and speed he has when in the ring.

The talented boxer was born on a windy day at the Omusimboti village east of Oshakati in August, 38 years ago.

When he was a child, boxing for Ambunda was something he only used to hear over the radio, but never had an interest in.

Ambunda started school in 1986 at Omusimboti Combined School where football was much more popular than boxing.

He enjoyed playing football on the dusty fields of his home village with his young friends while they were supposed to be herding cattle.

His life took a turn for the better in 1994 when he decided to make the great trek from the north to Windhoek. Coming to Windhoek meant that the boxer had access to television and that is how his interest in boxing grew.

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Namibian Sun 2025-04-20

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