MTC Sunshine Boxing and Fitness Academy trio Jeremiah ‘Lowkey’ Nakathila, Paulinus ‘John-John’ Ndjolonimus, and Mathias ‘The Beast’ Heita say Saturday’s boxing showcase at Ramatex in Windhoek is not to be missed.
They are on the undercard of compatriot Fillipus Nghitumbwa versus China’s Wang Dekang’s batttle for the World Boxing Organisation International super bantamweight title.
Ndjolonimus takes on Clever Sithole from Zimbabwe in an international super middleweight fight over 10 rounds in the main supporting bout of the Hage Geingob legacy event. Ndjolonimus’ mentor and promoter, Nestor Tobias, believes him to be an elite fighter who has been overlooked for big fights due to Namibia’s low sporting profile.
“The champion is Canelo Alvarez. The problem in Africa is: A kid like him [Ndjolonimus] is [globally rated] number six, but if you see he [Alvarez] fought John Ryder, who was number seven.
“You know why? What is the difference? Ryder is from the United Kingdom. He brings TV rights and money to the table,” Tobias said during yesterday’s media workout session.
“John-John is from Namibia. He just comes with gloves and fights. It’s difficult, you have to work hard and get to number one so you can get the champion,” he said.
“John-John is on the right track. You can see where he started, at number 15 – now he’s number six.
“After this fight, we’re going to push and see where he is going to end up. You’re going to get number 1 soon. We have done this before, and we’re going to do it again.”
Following consecutive high-profile losses in the United States of America (USA), former world title contender Nakathila is eager to make a winning return to the ring when he takes on Zimbabwean Evans Husayihwevhu in an international lightweight fight over 10 rounds.
“I’m ready, I’m excited to be part of this card,” said Nakathila.
“I’m proud of my promoter for coming up with a fight of this magnitude, with a boxer from very far, from China.
“I’m proud to be part of this big card, and of doing it for the legacy of our late president. I know the big contribution he made to sport.”
Meanwhile, Heita faces one-time Namibian boxing darling Immanuel ‘Prince’ Naindjala, also a former world title contender, over 10 rounds in a featherweight fight.
“I’m ready for my opponent, I’m free from injury. We call upon all the fans and boxing lovers to come and support us. Buy your tickets and for sure we are going to put up a good show,” Heita said.
Stay informed with The Namibian – your source for credible journalism. Get in-depth reporting and opinions for
only N$85 a month. Invest in journalism, invest in democracy –
Subscribe Now!
