Top boxing promoter Nestor Tobias is optimistic that former WBO Global junior lightweight champion Jeremia Nakathila will soon return to the spotlight.
Nakathila (34) is set to take part in the upcoming Together as One part 13 boxing bonanza organised by the MTC Nestor Sunshine Boxing Academy, headlined by Mateus Heita, who will face South Africa’s Thato Bonokoane in a 12-round WBA Pan Africa featherweight title bout.
The former junior lightweight champion will square off against Zimbabwe’s Tatenda Buningu in an international lightweight 10-round match. Nakathila is no stranger to high-stakes fights, having previously challenged one of America’s top boxers, Shakur Stevenson, for a world title back in 2021. Despite this, many have doubted his potential to reach such heights again. Tobias, however, remains confident that he can make a comeback with a few strong performances.
“I think it’s an important bout for Nakathila. He is a highly – rated boxer in the world; he has fought on the biggest stage before. We just need to give him a good three matches to gain points so he can challenge for the world title again,” Tobias said. “I believe Nakathila is one of the best boxers the country has ever produced, and I believe in his potential. So, as his trainer and coach, we will keep him in the gym, get him back to his best shape possible, and then he will be good to go,” he said.
Tobias also emphasised how much the bout means to Heita, who is striving for a shot at a world title in future “I think Heita is one of the most skilful boxers, and this fight is very important for him. With a good showing in this upcoming bout, he should be on the right path towards his world title quest,” Tobias added.
The event will feature an exhibition bout with female boxers, showcasing the commitment to inclusivity in the sport.
“We are always demonstrating that we support women in boxing, and including them on our card is part of that effort. We want to support them, and let them know they can turn pro one day,” Tobias said.
Other bouts on the night include Julius Sheefeni who will square off against Silas Shangangwa in the junior lightweight division, Tangeni Salomon vs. Sakarias Kennedy in a lightweight four-rounder, and Nestor Amukoto vs. Jonas Jonas in a welterweight four-rounder.
Additionally, Sam Mathew will face Tobias Armas in a featherweight six-rounder, Erastus Shapaka will take on Tobias Amunyela in a super fly four-rounder, and Nestor Thomas will square off against Jonathan Kasheta in a super bantamweight six-rounder Fillipus Shanika will face Lazarus Namalambo, while Pieter Kotze will take on Jonathan Groenwald in a three-round exhibition bout. The night will also feature Sebastian Nathanael vs. David Shinuna, who will square off in a junior lightweight division.
mkambukwe@nepc.com.na