Oshakati
Upcoming boxer Michael Benhard produced one of the fastest knockouts in boxing history when the hard-punching pugilist ruthlessly landed heavy punches on his opponent, Johannes Kutumba, to uprubtly end the contest just 39 seconds into the opening round.
Benhard had to cut the night shorter than expected in a bout that was billed for ten rounds – leaving many a journalist with egg on the face as they were still shifting into position to capture the action on camera.
The out-of-sorts Kutumba could hardly throw a single punch at his opponent, as Benhard lashed him to the canvas within the blink of an eye with a combination of heavy blows in the main bout of the evening.
“Although this was a non-title fight I believe it’s a giant step towards a bite at a national title fight, because the Namibian Boxing Control Board could not sanction me to fight for a national title, since I only boast a record of two fights since joining the paid ranks”, said a delighted Benhard.
Bethard’s old man, former national team boxer Joseph Benhard, who represented the country at the 1996 Olympics in Atlanta, was excited about his son’s progress, saying Michael is more than ready for a national title fight.
“We’re in the process of filing an application with the Boxing Control Board to grant him the opportunity to fight against national champions”.
The main bout was preceded by six undercard fights on a night decorated by knockouts – much to the delight of the local boxing fans in attendance. The boxing bonanza, promoted by Kilimanjaro Boxing Promotions, was sponsored by Mvula Group of Companies.