Thriving despite the odds
Thriving despite the odds

Thriving despite the odds

Despite the AC Boxing and Fitness Gym closing down, Namibian featherweight boxer Sakaria 'Desert Storm' Lukas kept training outdoors to keep alive his dream of lifting a title belt.
Herma Prinsloo
LIMBA MUPETAMI

WINDHOEK



Local boxer Sakaria 'Desert Storm' Lukas is not one to sit and wait for opportunities to fall in his lap.

The boxer has been hard at work with strength and conditioning coach Martin Angombe as he gears up for two tune-up fights internationally. One will take place next Friday in Mexico against an opponent yet to be announced, and the second will be in Atlanta a month later.

This after the Namibian dusted himself off after his loss by unanimous decision to Isaac Avelar of Mexico in Arlington, Texas, in December. This was the Namibian's first loss in 24 professional fights.



Moses keeps to the vision

These fights will set Lukas up for a title fight, according to his promoter, Immanuel 'AC' Moses.

“Lukas is not one to be told that he must train. He knows what is at stake. He wakes up and trains twice every day. He trained outdoors at the Extreme Fitness Bootcamp, as we don't have a gym at the moment. Angombe, the instructor at the bootcamp, keeps him in top shape and for that I really need to applaud Angombe, because his work ethic equals mine.”

Moses also thanked Global Boxing Stars and partners for opening doors for the boxers. “Since our last fight, we kept Lukas busy as he is in high demand. It is very difficult to get fights in the US, but we have big plans and we remain focused. I could have organised fights for Lukas against boxers from neighbouring Zimbabwe or Tanzania, but that would be of no use to the boxer.”



We offer quality fights

He explained that the boxer needs high-profile and quality opponents.

“He is not growing any younger. He needs to grab opportunities while he has time. With that, it's also a reminder to local boxers not to get offended when younger boxers call them out. Twenty-year-olds will call you out. Don't feel disrespected – they need to get through you to get to the top.

“After the age of 30, you are no longer a prospect. You then need to start piling on the pressure in order for your promoter to make fight deals happen for you,” added Moses.

Moses' partner, Scott Patrick Farrell from Global Boxing Stars, also wished Lukas well in his upcoming fights.

“All the best to Lukas of Namibia, as he sets off for two international fights. If he gets these two wins he could be in line for a world title shot later this year,” said Farrell.

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Namibian Sun 2025-02-23

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