World Boxing Organisation super bantamweight number eight Fillipus ‘Energy’ Nghitumbwa had to rely on his speed and strength to stop South Africa’s Mxolisi Zuma via a sixth-round knockout in their fight on Saturday, which saw Nghitumbwa clinch a victory.
The main bout of the MTC Nestor Tobias Boxing Academy event, held at the Windhoek Country Club and Casino on Saturday night, lived up to its billing.
Both boxers entered the ring boasting impressive records and promising an exciting contest.
From the onset, the fight was fast-paced, with heavy exchanges from both boxers. By the second round, however, it was clear that the 29-year-old Namibian boxer was in control.
Nghitumbwa’s relentless back-to-back combinations had Zuma on the canvas in the early seconds of the second round, although the South African quickly got back to his feet.
The Namibian continued to dominate, mixing sharp uppercuts with body shots to pile pressure on his opponent.
Just a minute into the sixth round, he unleashed a very crucial punch that floored Zuma for good, sealing an emphatic knockout victory.
Speaking after the fight, Nghitumbwa said he was confident of victory but urged his team to secure a tougher challenge.
“We planned for months for this fight. We knew we had to win to put ourselves in the right position to challenge for a world title. I’m happy with the win, but now it’s back to the gym while my team works on getting me a real match-up,” he said.
In the main supporting bout, Erastus Shapaka edged out Fabian Lameka for the Super Flyweight National title, which Shapaka won after a very entertaining fight by unanimous decision.
In other bouts on the night, Martin Mukungu from After School Boxing Club defeated Andreas Endjala in their fight in the second round after 2 minutes and 27 seconds.
Meanwhile, Nestor Tomas, who has had a great run on the local boxing scene, won his Saturday fight against John Herman with a convincing knockout.
Award-winning promoter and coach Nestor Tobias praised Nghitumbwa’s performance on Saturday.
He said it takes them a step closer to their goal.
“It was a great win, and in a stylish fashion. This victory moves us in the right direction towards our dream of fighting for a world title,” he remarked.