Immanuel ‘AC’ Moses, the owner of African Connection (AC) Boxing Academy, held a press conference yesterday at the NIIDA Building in Windhoek, unveiling the academy’s major plans for the year ahead.
Two of the academy’s top fighters, Charles Shinima and Flame Nangolo, are set to compete in highly-anticipated bouts this year, marking a significant step forward in their careers and for the academy.
Shinima is scheduled to take on South Africa’s Brandon Thysse for the World Boxing Council Silver Welterweight title on 8 March at the Emperor’s Palace in Johannesburg.
This thrilling showdown will be broadcast live on SuperSport under the Golden Gloves Promotions banner.
Meanwhile, Nangolo is set to compete for the vacant World Boxing Organisation (WBO) Super Featherweight title on 29 March at the Roman Catholic Hall in Windhoek.
He is actively calling on local boxers to challenge him for this prestigious title.
Moses emphasised the academy’s commitment to giving Namibian fighters the opportunity to shine on the big stage.
“We invite local promoters to propose fighters for this incredible opportunity to compete on such a significant platform,” he stated.
Ryan Rispel will also feature as the main supporting bout for Nangolo’s fight, promising fans a thrilling undercard filled with high-calibre action.
In addition, the highly-anticipated return of Walter Kautondokwa is set to add further excitement to the event.
As part of AC Boxing Academy’s commitment to grassroots development, Moses announced their participation in an amateur boxing tournament.
The event, held in celebration of LA FINCA Sports Club’s second anniversary, will take place on 22 March in Luanda, Angola.
“This tournament will provide an excellent opportunity for up-and-coming amateur boxers to gain valuable experience and exposure on an international platform,” he said.
He called on local boxing stables to join them and contribute to the development of future champions.
Looking ahead, Moses revealed that the academy will actively scout for new talent in 2025.
“We are looking to sign new prospects from gyms who lack promotional support. If you know of talented fighters looking for a platform to excel, let us know,” he added.
During the press conference, he expressed the need for financial assistance, stating that they have been operating without a sponsor, which hampers their progress.
He raised concerns about the rising number of exhibition fights taking place in Namibia.
He believes many of these bouts lack proper medical screening, posing risks to fighters.
“We urge those involved in exhibition matches to ensure they go through the correct channels, and do it for the right reasons,” Moses stressed.
Shinima, reflecting on his upcoming fight, shared excitement.
“This is a big stage. I won’t let it slide. I have been training since December. I’m ready to sharpen up in the next few weeks. I believe I have a better chance of winning against Thysse,” he said confidently.
Meanwhile, Nangolo, who trained in Los Angeles last year, boldly called out notable Namibian fighters, including Jeremiah ‘Lowkey’ Nakathila, Sebastian Natanael and Martin Mukungu, challenging them for a shot at the vacant WBO title.