Haikali stopped in his tracks

WINDHOEK – Africa’s award-winning boxing promoter, Nestor Tobias, is an angry man in the wake of World Boxing Organization (WBO) Africa lightweight champion Martin “Black Poison” Haikali’s controversial defeat to Samuel Amoako.

Haikali surrendered his belt following his defeat on points against the Ghanaian challenger after a local referee adjudged the Namibian to have thrown an illegal punch at his opponent after the bell had gone. The trigger-happy Ghanaian referee ordered the judges to deduct a point from Haikali.

The forfeited point  proved decisive as the defending champion eventually lost on points with two Ghanaian judges giving the score in favour of Amoako.

The scorecard read: (112 – 118) and (113–114)). A neutral judge from Mali ruled a stalemate (113-113) – thus giving the challenger a majority decision.

Tobias, who did not accompany his boxer to the Ghanaian capital Accra, is fuming and believes Haikali could have retained the belt had the referee not erred.

“The referee made a grave mistake because he (Haikali) was in full motion peppering his opponent with a combination of punches when suddenly the bell rang. The referee had no business ordering a point to be sliced off, let alone caution the boxer,” fumed Tobias.

Tobias says if that point had stood, Haikali could have been declared the winner by virtue of being the defending champion with the scorecard reading: 113-118, 114 –113 and 114-114.

“These sorts of hometown decisions are seriously hampering the progress of professional boxing on the African continent and unless something is done to remedy this nasty practice – boxing will die a natural death in Africa”

Haikali had previously beaten the Ghanaian in Accra on points in defence of his title and had defended the belt he won in 2009, successfully on no less than five occasions. His record now stands at 10 wins, 5 losses with three stoppages from 15 bouts in the paid ranks.

The fight was the main supporting bout for the WBO Africa light heavyweight Braimah Kamoko title defence against Homza Wandera, at the International Conference Centre in Accra, last Saturday. Kamoko retained the belt.

“We humbly requested the promoters to appoint neutral judges because we knew we were not going to get a fair deal from the Ghanaian judges, but the promoters were steadfast that it would be too costly to fly in judges from other countries,” added a furious Tobias.

Story by Carlos Kambaekwa

http://www.newera.com.na/articles/43136/Haikali-stopped-in-his-tracks

Brimah Kamoko better known as Bukom Banku successfully defended his WBO Africa Lightweight title after his Ugandan opponent refused to continue the bout in the third round in Accra in the wee hours of Sunday.

Ugandan boxer, Hamza Wandera in protest to a supposed foul by Bukom Banku turned his back twice and refused to continue fighting, forcing referee Roger Barnor to end the bout.

Wandera knocked Bukom Banku down, for the first time in his career in round one but failed to capatalise on his advantage.

By this win, Bukom Banku has improved his record to 23 wins and is getting closer to a shot at the world title.

He admitted in an interview with Joy Sports that the bout was a tough one. He said his opponent is a good boxer and although he knocked him down in the first round, he would have stopped him in either the fourth or fifth round.

Meanwhile, Wandera who explained his decision to Joy Sports after the bout said he “will come for a rematch anytime.”

He explained that he took to the decision to quit the fight to “protect my life. Kamoko was going to hack me more in the ring without referee warning him that is why I had to leave the fight. Next time if they call for an international fight it [should] not be a ‘Kamoko man’ [referee] … [and] I promise to knock him out.”

In other bouts, Joshua Okine defeated Argentina’s Amilcar Funes – a result many saw as controversial, while Samuel Amoako struggled to earn a win against Namibia’s Martin Hikali to claim the WBO Africa lightweight title.

http://sports.myjoyonline.com/pages/boxing/201202/82109.php

Ghanaian boxer Braimah Kamoko a.k.a Bukom Banku had to hit the scales twice this on Friday morning before securing the green card to defend his WBO Africa light heavyweight titles against his Namibian opponent Hamza Wandera at the Accra Sports Stadium on Saturday.

Bukom Banku failed to meet the required 175 pound weight limit for that category when he exceeded it during the weigh in.

An official of the World Boxing Organization, who was present, ordered it had to be done again after two hours. The Ghanaian boxer was left with his fate in his own hands as he had no option but to lose a couple of pounds in order to keep his title. This means Kamoko would have lost his titles ahead of the fight, if he had failed to meet the required weight expected by the association.

The Ghanaian boxer would have only fought for mere formality and a win would not have still changed the decision to strip him off his titles.
Kamoko was, however, able to shed of a couple of pounds after an hour of intense running and returned to the scales to make the weight.

Meanwhile, his Namibian opponent has rubbished the Ghanaian boxer’s wrath by saying he will send him packing. Bukom Banku also appealed to the Vice President John Dramani Mahama to be present at the Accra Sports Stadium to watch the fight.

http://sports.peacefmonline.com/boxing/201202/96991.php

Braimah Kamoko a.k.a “Bukom Banku” would on Saturday, February 25, mount the ring for the first time in the year to fight Hamza Wandera of Uganda in the World Boxing Organisation (WBO) Africa Light Heavyweight Championship at the Accra Sports Stadium and has vowed to ‘kill’ his opponent.

Bukom Banku, who enters the ring with an enviable record of 22 fights and 16 knock- outs, with the rest ending the full round, said at a press conference in Accra on Thursday, that his opponent would receive the severe beatings of his boxing career on Saturday.

The two would fight under the promotion syndicate, Golden Concept Boxing Promotions on a night declared as the “Moment of Truth”.

Bukom Banku said “The fight is your judgment day. On the day you would see that you are indeed a cockroach. I would kill you!

“Your people would carry your dead body to Uganda. If you don’t die I would make sure you go home maimed.” Bukom Banku bragged.

He also promised to give his opponent 1000 US dollars for shopping after the fight because he is sure of giving him a fight of his life.

Wandera, who has 14 fights with only two loses said he would give the Ghanaian a taste of defeat in his career.

“I am very angry because I’m here to end the unbeaten run in your career.

“I would eat banku on Saturday, because it is my favourite food. I would beat you on Saturday and take the title to Uganda.” He told the press.

He called on boxing fans to fill the seats on Saturday on time to watch him end the reign of one of the most popular boxers in the country.

Also on the bill are, Martin Haikali of Namibia who would fight Ghana’s Samuel Amoako for the WBO Africa Lightweight Championship, whilst Joshua Okine takes on Amilgan Funes of Argentina for the International Boxing Federation (IBF) Inter-Continental Welterweight title.

Eduado Flores of Ecuador and Eben Lamptey would vie for the WBO Africa Super Lightweight title, with Emmanuel Tagoe fighting Miguel Caceris of Argentina in a ten round Super Featherweight contest, whilst Ishmael Aryitey battles Hope Mawuli for the National Featherweight title.

http://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/SportsArchive/artikel.php?ID=230563

When he began his professional career in 2003, Wilberforce Shihepo started out on a sour note, losing his professional debut against Sydwell Mokhoro. He would later get on track, winning six of his next seven bouts. In 2006, he got his first regional title shot against Stanyslav Kashtanov for the WBC Youth World Super Middleweight title. Unfortunately, Shihepo had to retire due to cuts he suffered during the fight. It was not until 2011 when Shihepo would get another opportunity for a title. This time it was for the interim WBO Africa Super Middleweight title. The “Black Mamba” would not disappoint this time. He won a technical decision over Donald Kampamba. Since capturing the WBO Africa Super Middleweight crown, Shihepo has made one defense of his title, and two successful non-title bouts. His most recent came against Jonas Olah. He stopped Jonas Olah of Hungary in the 1^st round in a fight which took place in Offenburg, Germany – on 14^th January 2012… This takes his fight record to (17-6-0)…Wilberforce is trained and managed by Nestor Tobias – of Nestor Sunshine Boxing Academy…

The return of unbeaten world title aspirant Braimah Kamoko against Sweden based Ugandan Hamza Wandera on February 25 in Ghana will now take place at the Accra Sports Stadium instead of the previously announced Accra International Conference Centre, we can report.

Voted the WBO’s Africa Boxer of the year 2011, Kamoko, famously called Bukom Banku, 22-0, 16 KOs, takes on the 28 year old Wandera 14-3, 12 KOs in a second defence of the WBO Africa Light Heavyweight title he first won back in January last year.

The fight is the headliner of first promotion of the year by GoldenMike Boxing Promotions led by CEO Mike Tetteh.

Also defending their titles on the same bill are hot prospects Joshua Okine and Emmanuel Tagoe AKA Game Boy. Okine takes on Amilcar Funes of Argentina for his IBF Intercontinental Welterweight belt whereas Game Boy defends his IBF Intercontinental Super Featherweight title against Santos Benavides of Nicaragua.

Also fighting on February 25 at the Accra Sports Stadium are Ghana’s Samuel Amoako versus Martin Haikali of Namibia for WBO Africa Lightweight belt and another Ghanaian Ebenezer Lamptey against Ecuadorian Eduardo Flores for WBO Africa Super Lightweight title.

The night is completed by the national Featherweight championship between Ishmael Aryeetey and Samuel Adotei as well as Isaac Nettey versus Joshua Barnor in a final eliminator to the national Super Bantamweight title.

By Prince Dornu-Leiku:

http://www.eastsideboxing.com/news.php?p=30630&more=1

WINDHOEK – There seems to be no stopping Namibia’s interim World Boxing Organization (WBO) Africa champion, Immanuel “Prince” Naidjala, in his quest to become a world beater.

Young boxing sensation Naidjala was in no good mood in negotiating his South African opponent, Nkqubela Gwezela, and made easy work of his fight with a 5th round technical knockout, which left the South African slumbering on the canvas.

Naidjala extended his winning streak to 12 wins from 12 fights.

In the main supporting bout, former WBO light-heavyweight champion, Vikapita “Beast Master” Meroro, made his long-awaited comeback with a win against Zimbabwean, Chamunorwa Gonorenda, on points in a catch-weight fight.

Namibia’s award-winning boxing promoter, Nestor “Sunshine” Tobias, said he was very delighted with the results of all his boxers, adding that Namibian boxers can be ranked among the world’s best.

Tobias also hailed Meroro and Naidjala for a job well done, adding that Meroro’s performance was very phenomenal, “taking it from his last two defeats – but he still needs some time to recuperate and get back his alacrity”.

In another catch-weight fight, Peter Malakia beat Silas Mandeya of Zimbabwe on a unanimous points decision over four rounds, while in a welterweight fight over four rounds, Namibia’s Anthony Jaarman jacked up his seventh consecutive victory with a 4th round technical knockout against Martin Tshuma of Zimbabwe.

In a featherweight fight over four rounds, David Egumbo defeated Sem Kambonde with a 3rd round knockout.

In a lightweight fight, Mathias Shimbi attained his third consecutive victory when he knocked out Immanuel Andeleki in the third round, and in a junior welterweight fight over four rounds, Lukas Handivele defeated Jason Mashela on a unanimous points decision.

Also in a catch-weight category, Elias Nashivela trounced Thomas Shangula in a unanimous points victory.

http://www.newera.com.na/article.php?articleid=41966&title=Prince%20Naidjala%20goes%20for%20the%20kill%20%E2%80%A6%20%20Meroro%20makes%20gallant%20comeback

Paulus Ambunda participated in the 2004 Summer Olympics. At the 2004 Olympics he was stopped in the quarter finals of the Flyweight (51 kg) division by Germany’s eventual bronze medal winner Rustamhodza Rahimov. Ambunda won the silver medal in the same division at the All-Africa Games in Abuja,Nigeria.

Paulus Ambunda made his professional debut on June 30, 2007 when he defeated Johannes Gabriel by points. Since then, Ambunda has defeated all of his opponents. In october 2009, Ambunda captured the interim WBO Africa Bantweight title by knocking out Lwazi Mzolisa in the second round. After conquering the WBO Africa title, Ambunda still holds that belt today. On the 5^th of November of this year – he successfully defended his title against Bongani Mahlangu from South Africa (12-3-0)…Bongani Mahlangu is the WBA Pan Africa champion – and in a very tightly contested fight – managed to find the extra reserves that a true champion possesses to shade his adversary over 12 rounds and win by unanimous points decision…

Well done Paulus ‘The Rock’ Ambunda…

Immanuel “The Prince” Naidjala will be the main bout on Saturday when he faces South African Nkubela Gwezela at the Windhoek Country Club.

The WBO Africa bantamweight interim champion has been busy this year and this will be his fifth bout of the year.

He is still unbeaten after 11 fights. The Namibian who has seven knockouts under his belt, beat Emmanuel Simbeye from Zambia on a fifth round knockout in his last fight.

Naidjala might have a hard battle against Gwezela who has a record of 29 fights with 20 wins.

The 32-year-old South African who is nicknamed The Destroyer lost his last fight against Siviwe Hasheni on a split decision in East London in June this year.

Gwezela is the former South African bantamweight champion.

In the fight preceding the main bout, Former WBO Africa lightweight champion, Vikapita Meroro will fight Victor Moyo from Zimbabwe in a catchweight fight with an 87kg limit.

Meroro has a record of 20 wins from 23 fights while his opponent has a record of six wins from 11 fights.

In his last fight, Meroro lost to Braimah Kamoko of Ghana by unanimous decision in Accra, Ghana in June.

Before that, he had lost his WBO Africa light heavyweight title to Isaac Chilemba in South Africa in March by unanimous decision.

Meroro and Moyo met once before in March 2009 when Meroro knocked out Moyo in the second round.

In another catchweight (limit 62.23kg) fight on the same evening, Peter Malakia will face off against Silas Mandeya of Zimbabwe.

Malakia has a record of 18 fights with 8 wins, 9 defeats and 1 draw while Mandeya has a record of 5 wins from 11 fights.

Another boxer who is quickly making inroads on the local boxing scene, Anthony Jaarman (6f, 6w) will fight Zimbabwean Bhekimpilo Mlilo (7f, 3w, 4l) in a welterweight bout over 4 rounds.

David Egumbo (2f, 2l) will fight fellow Namibian Sem Kambonde (2f, 2l) in a 4 round featherweight bout.

Matthias Chimbi (2f, 2w) will go up against Immanuel Andeleki who will be making his professional debut on the evening. The lightweight bout will be fought over 4 rounds.

In a junior welterweight bout, Lukas Handivele and Jason Mashela will both make their professional debut in a 4 round encounter.

Lazarus Namalambo (2f, 2w) will take on Elikana Kalenga (3f, 2w, 1l) in a 4 round featherweight fight.

Elias Nashivela will make his pro debut against Thomas Shangula (1f, 1l) in a catchweight fight over four rounds in the first fight of the evening.

Tickets to the fight will cost N$100 while a table at ringside that seats 10 people will cost N$10 000. Tickets are available at the Boxing Control Board office.

http://www.namibiasport.com.na/node/21162

THE majority of Namibia’s top boxers are in for a busy festive season, promoter Nestor Tobias said yesterday.

On the cards is a boxing bonanza at the Windhoek Country Club this Saturday – headlined by interim WBO Africa bantamweight title holder Immanuel ‘Prince’ Naidjala and former WBO Africa light-heavyweight champion Vikapita ‘Beastmaster’ Meroro.
On Boxing Day, WBO Africa lightweight champion Martin ‘Black Poison’ Haikali is set for his fifth title defence when he fights George Ashie in Accra, Ghana.
Tobias also announced that Betuel ‘Tyson’ Uushona – initially part of Saturday’s main event – is set for an international title fight in Europe in January, so too are Wilberforce ‘Black Mamba’ Shihepo and Abmerk ‘The Scorpion’ Shidjuu.
WBO bantamweight champion Paulus ‘The Rock’ Ambunda is in line for a shot at the WBO world title in January.
“There are offers coming in for our champions from all over the world,” said Tobias. “There is no Christmas for these guys. They have to be in the gym to make sure they are in top condition.”
Uushona will fight former IBF Welterweight Champion Dejan Zavec (Jan Zaveck) from Serbia at a yet to be confirmed venue in Europe at the end of January.
“Tyson was supposed to fight Michael Sangweni from South Africa on Saturday but we decided it is   better if he fights against the former world champion,” Tobias said.
“It’s a good fight and a good offer for Tyson.”
Shihepo has a chance to dislodge Germany’s Robert Stieglitz as WBO super middleweight world titleholder on January 21.
Although the ‘Black Mamba’ has dismissed his last four opponents, he has never fought an opponent of Stieglitz’s calibre.
On January 14, flyweight Shidjuu gets an opportunity to avenge his 2010 loss to Commonwealth title holder Chris Edwards.
The ‘rematch’ will take place in Liverpool with Shidjuu, who claimed to have been robbed last time,  promising to stop his opponent this time around.

http://www.namibian.com.na/sport/local/full-story/archive/2011/november/article/top-boxers-set-for-busy-festive-season-schedule/

Braimah Kamoko, the newly decorated WBO African Boxer of the year, has reiterated the desire to fight for a world title because that is the only challenge he awaits now. Kamoko received the award from WBO Africa President Andrew Smale at a quiet but lavish ceremony in the Ghanaian capital of Accra last Saturday night and immediately demanded to take on the world.

“This is the first time I wear coat, I feel like I’m going to heaven. Yeah this is Bukom Banku the man himself. I want the world title now, I want to fight (WBO Light Heavyweight champion Nathan) Cleverly because he is holding my title. I say they should give me the chance to fight him now,” Braimah Kamoko, famously called Bukom Banku told the audience just after receiving the accolade.

The unbeaten Kamoko (22-0, 16 KOs), also the WBO Africa Light Heavyweight champion, was also full of praise for his management and promotion team, the Golden Concepts Management International and Golden Mike Boxing Promotions. According to the boxer who overcame several setbacks including an eye defect, he may not have been fighting now without the support of especially Golden Concepts boss Henry Manly-Spain and his wife Ivy.

Hear the highly eccentric Bukom Banku: “I want to thank my manager, I died and at the funeral he came to raise me up. Mr. Manly-Spain and Golden Mike have done more than enough for me and I will forever be grateful to them. Mrs. Manly-Spain, she is the first lady in Ghana, she is a real mother. For them, I will be a world champion before I die.”

Henry Manly-Spain declared his commitment to push not just Bukom Banku but many other boxers under their stable to become world champs soon.

“Ladies and gentlemen, I can see a very huge potential in Braimah Kamoko as a potential world beater and I believe with the needed support and commitment, he will rule the world. I wish to produce boxing world champions in the near future and I know Braimah Kamoko is one of them,” Mr. Manly-Spain has pledged.

http://www.eastsideboxing.com/news.php?p=29969&more=1

The exploits of hard hitting crowd puller Bukom Banku in 2011, has received due recognition from the World Boxing Organization (WBO).

The recognized boxing body has given Banku aka Braimah Kamoko the new award of WBO Africa Boxer of the year in the Light Heavyweight category.

And by the feat, Banku is now the number one on the continent and the second best in the world for the year under review. He emerged tops out of 14 African champions.

The award has placed him in a better position for a World title in the next few months, stated Andrew Smale, vice president, WBO Africa at the awards presentation ceremony in Accra last Saturday.

The WBO Africa vice president revealed that Banku reigned supreme due to the fact that the Ghanaian boxer mounted the ring just on two occasions but the enormity of the bouts warranted the award.

The boxer expressed profuse thanks for the honour done him and promised to extend his dominance to the world stage.

The Chief Executive Officer of Golden Mike Promotions, promoters of Banku, Mike Tetteh pointed out that the recognition was timely. ‘The recognition has come at a time when boxers, promoters, investors, managers and fans needed motivation to keep the momentum of the sport intact.’

Golden Concept Management International CEO, Henry Mainly Spain, manager of Banku, mentioned that boxing is one of the most lucrative businesses in the World. He called on corporate Ghana to come on board to brainstorm as business executives to provide opportunities which will make the sport attractive.

Banku, who turned pro in 2000, has kayoed 16 of the 22 pugilists that he has encountered, with no defeat. He received a beautifully designed plaque.

The award ceremony was originally scheduled for the US and later to South Africa but was moved to the boxer’s home country due to logistical challenges of Banku’s management.

By Kofi Owusu Aduonum

http://www.modernghana.com/sports/363598/2/wbo-honours-banku.html

World title aspirant Braimah Kamoko popularly called Bukom Banku is set to receive his (World Boxing organization) WBO African boxer of the year 2011 at a lavish ceremony slated for the Coconut Grove Regency Hotel in Accra this Saturday November 26 at 7pm.

The dinner buffet/ award presentation ceremony with live music by THE CELEBRANTS band, will see Andrew Smale, the WBO Africa President present the award to Bukom Banku.

The unbeaten WBO Africa Light Heavyweight champion won all two of his fights this year and was expected to have taken up the award at the WBO Congress in Puerto Rico last month but US immigration officials in Accra refused the visa application of certain key members of the boxer’s management and promotion team.

Now the GoldenMike Boxing Promotions and Golden Concept Management International are organizing this presentation ceremony to officially recognize the accolade for the boxer.

“Attendance is strictly by invitation and nobody would be permitted entry without an invitation. All should comport themselves because dignitaries will be there in their numbers therefore no invitation, no entry,” GoldenMike Boxing Promotions CEO Mike Tetteh iterated in a statement.

Vikapita “The Beastmaster” Meroro will return to the ring after a long absence on December 3 when he faces off against Victor Moyo of Zimbabwe in a light heavyweight international bout at the Windhoek Country Club and Resort.

Meroro last fought in June when he lost to Braimah Kamoko of Ghana by unanimous decision in Accra, Ghana.

Before that, he had lost his WBO Africa light heavyweight title when he went down to Isaac Chilemba from Malawi in South Africa in March by unanimous decision.

“I know that if I hadn’t lost those two fights I would have been world champion by now,” Meroro said.

“Now I know I have to make sure I get back into the world rankings by winning my next fights starting with this next one in December,” he added.

Meroro has a record of 23 fights with three defeats. His Zimbabwean opponent has a record of 11 fights with six wins and five losses.

Meroro and Moyo fought each other before in 2009 in Windhoek and Meroro emerged as the winner with a second round knock out.

The bout will be over eight rounds.

The main fight of the night will see Betuel “Tyson” Uushona go up against South African Michael Sangweni in a 10 round welterweight international bout.

Event promoter, Nestor Tobias, said after Uushona’s last fight he needed to get back into the ring.

“Tyson fought recently but that fight was stopped and recorded as a draw, so I decided to give him another fight since he had trained hard for a fight,” Tobias said.

His fight against Francis Gakpetor was controversially stopped in the second round when the referee said Uushona had head butted his opponent.

“I am looking forward to stepping in the ring again especially after what happened at my last fight,” Uushona said.

“The whole fight was ruined by the official, but I don’t want to dwell on that and I will focus on the next fight,” he added.

Uushona has a record of 27 fights, one loss and one draw while Sangweni has a record of 17 fights with 11 wins.

On the same evening, Immanuel “The Prince” Naidjala (11f 11w) will step into the ring in an eight round bout against Zimbabwean Brighton Zhande (7f 6w 1l).

Naidjala, who is the WBO Africa interim bantamweight titleholder last fought in September against Emmanuel Simbaye and he won with a fifth round knock out in Windhoek.

In other fights, Peter Malakia (15f 10w 3l 2d) will fight against Silas Mandeya (11f 5w 6l) from Zimbabwe in a four round lightweight bout.

David Egumbo (2f 2l) will fight fellow Namibian Costa Costa (2f 2l) in a four round featherweight bout.

Philemon Kanime (2f 2l) will face off against Jason Mashela (pro debut) who is also from Namibia. The junior welterweight bout will be fought over four rounds.

Lazarus Namalambo (2f 2w) will take on Elikana Kalenga (3f 2w 1l) in a four round featherweight fight.

Elias Nashivela will make his pro debut against Thomas Shangula (1f 1l) in a catchweight fight over four rounds in the first fight of the evening.

Ghana’s Light Heavyweight boxer, Braimah Kamoko has been adjudged the African Boxer of the Year by the World Boxing Organisation (WBO) for the year 2011.

Kamoko nicknamed “Bukom Banku”, was named the finest African boxer by the global boxing body at its annual convention held from 24-29 October in Puerto Rico. Information gathered by GNA Sports indicates that 31-year old Kamoko, holder of the WBO Africa Light Heavyweight title stood out amongst his competitors for the honour awarded to the most distinguished boxer during the year under review.

Famed for his antics in and outside the ring, Kamoko won his two fights during the year; managing a unanimous decision over Namibian Vikapita Merero in June and a fourth round knockout of Uruguayan Jorge Rodriguez Oliviera earlier in January. It is the most recognised individual honour for the enterprising boxer since joining the professional ranks in 2000.

With a record of 22-0-0, the Bukom-based boxer has risen to number two on the WBO latest ratings as far as the Light Heavyweight division is concerned. The number one contender is Russian Dmitry Sukhotsky, the Inter-continental champion with British Nathan Cleverly as the Champion.

The latest rankings takes Kamoko closest to realising his long-cherished dream of a world title within the shortest possible time as he is the only African in the top five bracket.

Namibians featured prominently at the World Boxing Organisation Convention held recently in Puerto Rico in October.

Nestor Tobias was awarded the WBO African Promoter of the Year for the second consecutive year. He staged four events this year alone, which involved eight WBO Africa title fights.

Five Namibian boxers are on the list of the 14 WBO Africa champions.

WBO Africa bantamweight champion, Paulus Ambunda is the highest ranked Namibian on the WBO ranking with a rating of three in the world after 17 unbeaten fights.

WBO Africa welterweight interim champion, Betuel Uushona is ranked 11th in the world with a record of 26 fights with one loss.

Wilberforce Shihepo, who is the WBO Africa super middleweight titleholder is rated 11 in the world and has a record of 16 fights and 6 losses.

Immanuel Naidjala is the WBO Africa bantamweight interim champion and is rated 15th in the world. He is still unbeaten after 11 fights.

The WBO lightweight champion, Martin Haikali is still not ranked but has a record of 10 fights with four losses.

Braimah Kamoko from Ghana is the WBO Africa Boxer of the year. Ambunda was last year’s recipient of the award.

Kamoko was responsible for Vikapita Meroro losing his light heavyweight title earlier in the year in Accra, Ghana.

WBO second vice president, Andrew Smale said that the WBO was growing in Africa.

“There is no doubt that the WBO Africa title is the most contested on the continent in comparison with other African continental belts,” Smale said.

“The WBO Africa title has been contested 22 times this year alone in Namibia, Ghana and France. All other organisations together could only muster seven in total,” he added.

WBO Convention News

I have just returned from the WBO Annual Convention in Puerto Rico – held in beautiful San Juan (24^th-29^th October)…In between taking care of business – it was good meeting with old friends and making new acquaintances.  The Convention was dedicated to founding President – Dr Luis Batista Salas who together with other flag bearers over the years – including current president Francisco Valcarcel – have established an organization which lives by its principles of dignity, honesty and democracy…

During the Convention, tribute was also paid to all the great Puerto Rican champions over the years…In attendance – were the current crop of champions – as well as champions of old.  The most colourful being Hector ‘Macho Man’ Camacho…

All the reports submitted during the Convention, points to an organization with solid leadership, that is financially sound, that is growing in stature and that is entrenching itself as one of the foremost sanctioning bodies in the world.

WBO AFRICA…

Sadly not all African delegates who expressed an interest to attend – were able to attend. Deon Dwarte (South African boxing referee and judge) – was the only other South African in attendance.  Other notable Africans in attendance was big Ola Afolabi – the Nigerian Cruiserweight – who is currently Nr.1 in the Junior Heavyweight division…

There is no doubt that the WBO Africa title is the most contested on the continent in comparison with other African continental belts on the continent.  The WBO Africa title has been contested 22 times this year alone in Namibia, Ghana and France…All the other organizations together – could only muster 7 in total…Enough said!!

History was also made earlier this year – when Carlos Takam of Cameroon (23-1-0) fought Gbenga Oloukun of Nigeria (19-6-0) for the WBO Africa Heavyweight title in Paris, France…

Currently there are 14 WBO Africa champions:

WBO ARICA AWARDS @ The convention

WBO Africa Promoter of the Year – was awarded to Nestor Tobias of Namibia for the 2^nd year in succession. Nestor has staged 4 shows this year alone involving 8 WBO Africa title fights…4 of the champions in his stable enjoy favourable world rankings and his loyalty to the WBO has not gone unnoticed…

WBO Africa Boxer of the Year – was awarded to Braimah Kamoko of Ghana (22-0-0)…the strong and talented Lightheavyweight who is currently ranked Nr.2 in the latest world rankings…

WBO AFRICA 2012…

Get ready – we are in for a bumper year in 2012.  More promoters from other parts of Africa are coming on board. Some of our current WBO Africa champions stand at the threshold of world title fights…so watch this space

My Pledge as Vice President for Africa for 2012:

• Lead the Organization by upholding the values of Dignity, Democracy and Honesty
• To raise the bar…

In saying so – expect a few changes which will be communicated to you in due course!

WBO AFRICA FIGHT RESULTS.

• Paulus Ambunda (17-0-0)       W12    Bongani Mahlangu (12-3-0)    Windhoek, Namibia (5^th November 2011)

Also check out our brand new WBO website – launched at the WBO Convention in Puerto Rico (www.wboboxing.com).  Happy Reading!!

Until next time – KEEP PUNCHING

This picture shows Nestor Tobias proudly receiving the award of WBO Africa promoter of the Year from Mr Andrew Smale (on his right)…On the left of Nestor Tobias – is the Deputy Minister of Sport for Namibia – Minister Pohamba Shifeta who is a regular guest at tournaments in Namibia…

The award was handed to Mr Nestor Tobias before the WBO Africa Bantamweight title fight – which took place at the Windhoek Country Club – just outside Windhoek on Saturday – 5^th November 2011.  Nestor Tobias has this year successfully staged 4 shows – involving 8 WBO Africa title fights…

Nestor currently has in his stable 5 WBO Africa champions:

• Wilberforce Shihepo (16-6-0) – ranked Nr.11 in the WBO world rankings @ Super Middleweight
• Bethuel ‘Tyson’ Uushona (25-1-1) – ranked Nr.10 in the WBO world rankings @ Welterweight
• Martin Haikali (10-4-0) – Not ranked
• Paulus Ambunda (17-0-0) – ranked Nr.3 in the WBO world rankings @ Bantamweight
• Immanuel Naindjala (11-0-0) – ranked Nr.15 in the WBO world rankings @ Bantamweight

Any promoters and managers who are interested in linking up with Nestor’s Sunshine Promotions in Windhoek can contact him on: nestorsunshine@yahoo.com

Contact Numbers: +264811298581/+264812453349

WINDHOEK – There seems to be no stopping Namibian boxers in their quest to become world-class boxers.

This was confirmed by Namibia’s pocket-sized undisputed World Boxing Organization (WBO) champion, Paulus “The Rock” Ambunda, when he retained his WBO bantamweight title after courageously trouncing South African Bongani Mahlangu on points, in a 12-round bout at the Windhoek Country Club Resort & Casino on Saturday.

Ambunda started the first round with some good jabs, to which the skillful Mahlangu responded well.

In the second round, Ambunda started throwing his heavy blows, which kept the South African running for safety for most of the fight.

In the eleventh and twelfth rounds, it became a hit-and-run affair as Mahlangu was now constantly on the run, which made it difficult for Ambunda to hit his target.
Ambunda is still undefeated after 17 professional fights, while this was his opponent’s second defeat after 17 professional bouts.

In another exciting under-card fight, Namibia’s WBO Interim Africa super middleweight champion, Wilberforce “Black Mamba”, Shihepo was in no mood to compromise and made his opponent pay dearly for having the guts to accept a fight against him – a complete marauding Namibian boxer.

Shihepo made easy work of his fight against Johannes Pieterson of South Africa when he bombed the South African with a fifth round technical knockout.

In other action, WBO Interim Africa Welterweight champion Tyson Uushona and Ghanaian opponent Francis Gakpetor’s fight ended in a draw after a clash of heads that left Gakpetor with a stream of blood all over his face, which left the ring doctors with no choice but to end the fight.

by Otniel Hembapu

http://www.newera.com.na/article.php?articleid=41547&title=Ambunda%20retains%20title%20%E2%80%A6%20As%20Force%20goes%20for%20the%20kill

by Carlos Kambaekwa

WINDHOEK – The mere uttering of the word Wilberforce “Force” Shihepo is enough to send shivers running riot in the bellies of potential opponents.

At 27, Force is determined to unlock his unlimited potential and nothing will stand in the way of the strongly built Namibian when the World Boxing Organization (WBO) Africa Super Middleweight champion squares up against Johannes Pieterson in a non-title eight rounder.

The bout will be the main under card for the much-anticipated Paulus Ambunda/Bongani Mahlangu WBO Africa Bantamweight title fight at the Windhoek Country Club on November 4.

With time not on his side anymore, the flamboyant Shihepo is taking no prisoners and is itching to make short work of his fight against the equally dangerous South African in what promises to be an all-out affair.

The Namibian boasts an impressive record of 15 wins and six defeats from 21 bouts in the paid ranks but has since come of age, while a good chunk of his losses were self inflicted through his carefree lifestyle and inability to keep super fit prior to big fights.

The “Black Mamba”, as the muscular Shihepo is affectionately known among his ardent fans, is now a changed man and destined for greater things with the much sought-after World title the ultimate destination.

His handler Nestor “Sunshine” Tobias is confident that one of his most prized assets is a work in progress and could have the world at his feet once he hits his peak.
“The boy has a lion’s heart required in the tough and demanding rigours of professional boxing and above all, he is courageous and possesses dynamite in both hands – a rare commodity in modern boxing,” raved Tobias about his unpolished gem.

His opponent has 14 wins, six losses and two draws to his credit – certainly a remarkable record not to be taken lightly, but Force is a man possessed and would stop at nothing in realizing his dream of getting a crack at the World title with a comprehensive win over the South African – come the 4th of November 2011.

http://www.newera.com.na/article.php?articleid=41401&title=Shihepo,%20boxing%E2%80%99s%20lionhearted%20major%20force

By: SHEEFENI NIKODEMUS

NESTOR ‘Sunshine’ Tobias on Wednesday won the WBO Africa Promoter of the Year award for the second successive year.

Financial constraints meant that he could not accept the award in person.
Tobias will be officially presented with the award byWBO fourth vice president Andrew Smale before WBO Africa bantamweight Paulus ‘The Rock’ Ambunda’s title defence fight next Saturday.
Arguably the top promoter in the country, Tobias said yesterday that he was not surprised to win the prestigious prize as it was testimony to the hard work put it by his stable, a point his detractors need to take note of.
“It’s through the boxers’ hard work and commitment that we are able to get these awards. To those people who are always talking negative about us, they should know that these things don’t come for free. For us boxing is our livelihood. It is all we do.”
The WBO Africa Boxer of the Year 2011 was awarded to of Ghana, a man Tobias felt had scored a dubious victory over Namibia’s Vikapita Meroro in July.
Ambunda, who faces challenger Bongani Mahlangu from South Africa, was the recipient of the award last year.

ROCK STATUS

Keeping true to his nature, Tobias seized the opportunity to promote Ambunda’s upcoming fight. ‘The Rock’ Ambunda has the makings of a world champion, the handler said.
Tobias has plenty of faith in the fighter, whom he said has the potential to emulate former two-time middleweight world champion Harry ‘Onkugo’ Simon and former WBA lightweight title holder Paulus ‘The Hitman’ Moses.
According to Tobias, the 31-year-old Ambunda can secure his chance at world title shot once he disposes of Mahlangu.
The WBO bantamweight world strap is now vacant after two time champion Nonito Donaire stepped up a division, a development that has edged Ambunda closer to realising his dream.
“Ambunda is at his peak now,” Tobias said.
“He is rated number three in world and if he wins he can improve that position and become the mandatory challenger.
“It’s also motivation for him. I want him to be the third guy from Namibia to fight for a world title.”

http://www.namibian.com.na/sport/local/full-story/archive/2011/october/article/wbo-awards-tobias-again/

WINDHOEK – While Africa is blessed with a significant number of highly talented boxers – the continent is poorly represented in some of the high-profile global titles.

It’s a well-documented secret that a good chunk of African boxers are holed up in the less prestigious World Boxing Federation (WBF) and several other low-profile boxing umbrella bodies, but Namibian boxers have their eyes firmly fixed on the real McCoy.

Namibia’s World Boxing Organization (WBO) undisputed Africa bantamweight champion Paulus “The Rock” Ambunda, is one step away from a crack at the coveted world crown.

However, the quicksilver Namibian must first negotiate his way past the equally dangerous Bongani Mahlangu when Ambunda makes his 4th title defence against the South African in the main bout at the Windhoek Country Club on November 5.

Ambunda is unbeaten in 16 fights with 10 stoppages, while his opponent holds an impressive record of 15 wins and one defeat to his credit in 16 fights in the paid ranks.

Ambunda’s handler, Nestor “Sunshine” Tobias, is upbeat about his boxer’s prospects.
“What makes this fight very interesting is the fact that the current WBO bantamweight world champion, Nonito Deneiro, has given up his crown after he moved up a notch to the super bantamweight category,” says the world-acclaimed boxing guru.
“The title is vacant and is now there for the taking since the number one and second ranked challengers are both from Asia – victory for Ambunda, who is ranked number three in world rankings, could pave the way for a crack at the world title against one of the two Asian challengers,” adds Tobias boastfully.

Tobias also lashed out at the reluctance of corporate businesses to come on board as sponsors for major boxing events. Boxing is a very expensive exercise in terms of organization, purses, travelling, judges, referees and many other aspects attached to the high demands required in professional boxing.

“Apart from our regular sponsor Nampower, we have been gravely struggling to convince and lure potential sponsors to our shores despite the unsurpassed success of our boxers. Namibia has a very good chance of adding to the list of former world champions Harry Simon and Hitman Moses, but this dream can only be realized if all stakeholders put their shoulder to the wheel.”

The boxing bonanza will be preceded by two top-notch bouts involving Namibia’s WBO Africa current champions Wilberforce Shihepo and Bethuel “Tyson” Uushona.

The hard-punching force will defend his WBO Africa super middleweight belt against Johannes Pieterson from South Africa, while Uushona puts his belt at stake against south Ghanaian challenger Francis Gakpetor over eight rounds.

Entrance fee is N$10 000 per table of 10 for the VIP’s (finger meals included) while spectators on the grand stand are required to cough up N$100 per seat.

by Carlos Kambaekwa

http://www.newera.com.na/article.php?articleid=41340

By Ronnie Nathanielsz

Filipino southpaw Czar Amonsot fights for the WBO Oriental welterweight title and the WBO African title against Samuel Colomban in Flemington, Victoria, Australia on November 18.

The 26 year old Amonsot who has a record of 22-3-1 with 12 knockouts last fought on September 23, 2010 when he scored a 2nd round knockout over Thailand’s Sirichai Ekchumpol for the vacant WBO Asia Pacific title in a bout where the THai fighter was given a standing eight count in the opening round.

The 26 year old Colomban who is from Cameroon and fights out of Melbourne, Australia is regarded as a tough opponent with a solid record of 20-3 with 10 knockouts.

Colomban won the vacant WBO Africa title on November 27, 2010 with a twelve round split decision over Steve Heremaia and won the WBO Oriental welterweight crown wit a 4th round TKO of Thai fighter Sapaptch Sor Sakaorat last April 8 in which he dropped Sakaorat twice in the 4th round.

Amonsot who suffered a slight bleed outside the brain following a bloody ring war with Australian Michael Katsidis in a WBO interim lightweight title fight in Las Vegas on July 21, 2007 used to fight for the ALA Gym.

Amonsot returned to the ring at the Waterfront Hotel in Cebu where he won a unanimous ten round decision over Jesus Singwancha (Muzaka) from the Congo who was nicknamed “The Black Tiger.”

However, after a subsequent accident at his workplace ALA boxing patron Tony Aldeguer, concerned about Amonsot’s safety refused to allow him to fight again.

Amonsot decided to go to Australia and has been fighting there since then.

http://www.boxingscene.com/czar-amonsot-goes-wbo-regional-title-on-nov-18–45239

PAULUS ‘The Rock’ Ambunda believes that Namibians have become accustomed to seeing local boxers win, a trend that will continue on November 5.

Speaking at a press conference in Windhoek yesterday, the WBO Africa bantamweight champion promised to defeat challenger Bongani Mahlangu from South Africa in order to keep his supporters happy and defend his title for the sixth time.
Ambunda said he was confident that stablemates Bethuel ‘Tyson’ Uushona and Wilberfoce ‘Force’ Shihepo, who are undercard highlights, would back up his sentiments with victories of their own.
“We always do good,”Ambunda said of himself and his compatriots.
“The supporters come to see us because we give them good results. This time we will give them good results as always.”
Ushoona is set to battle Ghanaian powerhouse Francis Gakpetor in a welterweight eight-round bout, while ‘Force’ faces Johannes Peiterson from South Africa in the super-middleweight class, also over eight rounds.
Fight promoter Nestor Tobias echoed Ambunda’s comments, saying the fighters thrived on the support of their followers.
“People want to watch good boxing and these guys perform when there is a big crowd supporting them,” he said. “We have to keep grooming them to become more attractive to the public.”
Tobias also used the platform to have a go at the Namibia Sport Awards selectors, whom he believes have failed to recognise his efforts and those of his boxers.
Former world lightweight champion Paulus Moses and Jafet Uutoni are the only nominees from boxing that made the cut.
The pair are vying against Welwitschias captain Jacques Burger, triathlete Abrahm Louw, shooter Gielie van Wyk and cricket’s Craig Williams for the Sportsman of the Year Award.
“I’m being acknowledged internationally but locally I’m not there. I’m not saying my name should be there but we have good administration in boxing also. There are many good coaches, judges and boxers who have performed well over the last year.”

By: SHEEFENI NIKODEMUS
http://www.namibian.com.na/sport/local/full-story/archive/2011/october/article/we-dont-disappoint-says-ambunda/

WINDHOEK, Oct. 19 (Xinhua) — Namibia’s World Boxing Organization (WBO) Africa bantamweight champion Paulus Ambunda has said he is ready to defend his title successfully in two weeks time.

Ambunda will defend his title against South African challenger Bongani Mahlangu at the Windhoek Country Club and Resort on November 5.

The southpaw quoted by Nampa on Wednesday said his preparations for the title defence have gone very well. “I know the opponent, but I do not underestimate him. Come the 5th of November, you will all see the result,” said Ambunda.

The Namibian champion boasts a professional record of 16 fights without a loss, which compares favourably to Mahlangu’s record of 16 fights, 15 wins and one defeat.

The event will also feature eight undercard fights, with super middleweight boxer Wilbeforce Shihepo (21 fights, 15 wins and six losses) taking on South African Johannes Pieterson (22 fights, 14 wins, six losses and two draws) in an eight-round bout.

Namibia’s welterweight boxer Betuel Uushona, who holds a record of 26 fights, 25 wins and one defeat, will fight Francis Gakpetor (17 fights, 15 wins and two losses) from Ghana, also in an eight-round bout.

http://www.shanghaidaily.com/article/article_xinhua.asp?id=24359