When one speaks about boxing in Namibia, a name stands out, and that is none other than Nestor Tobias.
Born in a humble village of Edundja in the Ohangwena Region, Tobias has grown to become one of Namibia’s most influential sports figures as he has defied the odds and transformed not only his life but also the face of boxing in Namibia.
Today, he stands tall as a hero, not just to boxers, but to an entire nation that has seen its flag rise on global stages because of his relentless efforts.
Tobias’s journey started in the shadows of apartheid-era Namibia. As a promising amateur boxer, he demonstrated grit and potential from a young age, eventually earning the title of South West Africa champion and traveling around the world to compete in distant arenas in Chile, Brazil, and Argentina.
His career, however, was painfully cut short by a shoulder injury. Faced with surgery or retirement, he made a choice that would change the future of Namibian boxing forever: he decided to give back by becoming a coach and a promoter.
In 2000, Tobias founded the Nestor Sunshine Tobias Boxing and Fitness Academy, registering with the Namibia Boxing and Wrestling Control Board as a trainer and manager. A year later, he obtained a promoter’s license. With little to no infrastructure, no professional referees, and no corporate backing, it was a bold move—a leap of faith grounded in vision and determination.
“I used to take boxers to neighbouring countries and paid for everything from my own pocket – including the opponents,” Tobias recalls.
His first major success came with Frans “Rambo” Hantindi, who clinched the WBA Pan-African welterweight title at one of Tobias’ early promotions. This was just the beginning. Over the next two decades, Tobias would raise an army of champions that would put Namibia firmly on the world boxing map.
Among his most iconic protégés is Paulus “The Hitman” Moses, a former WBA Lightweight World Champion, followed by Paulus “El Jesus” Ambunda, a former WBO Bantamweight World Champion. Then came Julius “Blue Machine” Indongo, who shocked the world by unifying the WBA, IBF, and IBO Super Lightweight titles. Other champions mentored by Tobias include Jeremiah “Low Key” Nakathila, Bethuel “Tyson” Uushona, Paulus Ali “The Silent Assassin” Nuumbembe, and the late Kanime Kanime.
The academy wasn’t just a training ground; it became a lifeline. Even when they trained at the modest Katutura Youth Complex, Tobias never let the lack of modern equipment dampen their spirits. “It’s not about the gym. It’s about what you do inside that gym. Discipline and commitment beat luxury every time,” he insists.
With that philosophy, Tobias developed world-class fighters and, in doing so, elevated an entire sport. The Namibia Boxing and Wrestling Control Board, once underfunded and unsupported, now benefits from government backing, a direct result of the legitimacy and success Tobias brought to the sport.
His mission continues. Today, Tobias is mentoring a new generation of contenders: Fillipus ‘Energy’ Nghitumbwa, Matheus Heita, and Paulinus ‘John-John’ Ndjolonimus. He believes Nghitumbwa is ready for a world title, despite facing resistance and high demands from international opponents. But if Tobias’ track record proves anything, it’s that persistence pays off.
Beyond producing champions, Tobias has become a mentor, father figure, and national icon. He has elevated boxing officials, secured international recognition for Namibian talent, and fostered pride in Namibian identity.
“When our anthem plays in foreign arenas, that’s already a win,” he said with quiet conviction.
His impact extends beyond the ring. Tobias calls on the government to invest more in sports heroes, to involve legends in youth programmes and development.
“We’ve built something powerful here. Even when I’m gone, boxing in Namibia will live on,” he declared.
As long-time associate Nicky Natangwe stated that for Heroes’ Day, Tobias truly deserves recognition. “He didn’t just fight in the ring – he fought for a nation’s pride, for young men and women to believe in their dreams, and for the very foundation of professional boxing in Namibia. His story is not only one of success, but of service. He has given his whole life to boxing. He is hardworking, level-headed, and dedicated beyond measure,” he said.
Another promoter and trainer from AC Boxing Academy, Immanuel ‘AC’ Moses, who has worked with Tobias in the past, said he has known him for over 15 years. “And during that time, I have had the privilege to work closely with him and witness firsthand the extraordinary dedication he has for the sport of boxing. His passion is unmatched, and his commitment to uplifting Namibian boxing is something that deserves the highest level of respect and recognition,” he said.
“Under his guidance, Namibia has seen the rise of three world champions, a remarkable achievement that speaks volumes about his talent, vision, and relentless work ethic.
But what truly sets Nestor apart is his willingness to go above and beyond for the sport he loves. I’ve seen him make unimaginable sacrifices to ensure boxing continues to thrive in this country.”
“I remember vividly a time when he sold his own car just to make sure a boxing tournament could take place. That kind of dedication is rare; it’s not just about the sport, it’s about a deep belief in the dreams of young fighters, in the spirit of competition, and in Namibia’s place on the global boxing stage.
Tobias is more than a coach or a promoter; he is a visionary, a mentor, and a true hero of Namibian sport,” said Moses.
-lmupetami@nepc.com.na