Windhoek
There will be no margin for error when Namibia’s International Boxing Organization (IBO) super-bantamweight world champion, Paulus “the Rock” Ambunda, makes his first title defence against the equally dangerous Australian challenger Jason “Nugget” Cooper next month.
Barely six months after he won the vacant belt against Spanish opponent Leandro David Esperante, Ambunda returns to the boxing ring to defend his precious asset. The Namibian is determined not to fall into the same trap twice following his dismal failure to successfully defend his WBO bantamweight world title, which he surrendered at the first defence in 2013.
Ambunda’s handler Nestor “Sunshine” Tobias perceives the bout as a life-and-death matter and does not entertain any thoughts of relinquishing his precious crown, at least not for the time being.
“We have done our homework and would not have accepted the challenge if we knew that we are throwing our man to the wolves. He (Ambunda) is a much more mature boxer now and will not let it slip again.
“The boy packs a decent punch and is also blessed with a strong chin, and can take heavy punches, while he possesses an amazing quick recovery from heavy blows,” boasts the Namibian multiple coach of the year award holder.
The bout is slated for the spacious Ramatex Hall on the edge of Windhoek on the 5th of next month and will be preceded by mouth-watering under-card bouts featuring a significant pool of some of the leading professional boxers.
The exciting line-up is led by crowd favourite Sacky “Izinyoka” Shikukutu, Tyson Ushona, Abmerk Shidjuu, Wilbeforce Shihepo, Walter Kautondokwa, Jeremiah Nakashila, Johannes “Baluka” Simon and Japhet Utoni against yet to be identified opponents.
Meanwhile, the MTC Sunshine Boxing and Fitness Academy has embarked on an aggressive marketing campaign in an effort to raise awareness for Ambunda’s upcoming title defence. The revered academy will undertake a street tour in their branded bus around the city and will also touch base with nearby towns Okahandja and Rehoboth.