Sixty-five seconds was all it took for rising boxing star, Flame Nangolo to claim the World Boxing Association (WBA) African Junoor Lightweight title on Saturday night.

Nangolo extended his undefeated streak with a devastating knockout victory over Zimbabwean veteran Peter Pambeni. The highly anticipated bout took place at the Roman Catholic Hall in Windhoek on Saturday night.

The match pitted Nangolo’s perfect 11-0 record against Pambeni’s 18-3 resume. The stakes were high, as the WBA Pan African Junior Lightweight title was on the line. The build-up to the fight was filled with verbal sparring, with both camps trading barbs and fuelling the excitement.

From the opening bell, Nangolo showcased his superior skill and technique, dominating the early exchanges. However, it was a single, well-placed punch that sealed his victory. Pambeni’s reckless attempt at a powerful blow sailed over Nangolo’s head, leaving him wide open. Nangolo seized the opportunity, unleashing a devastating uppercut that sent Pambeni crashing to the canvas. Doctors had to be called into the ring after the count of 10 to assess Pambeni’s condition. Nangolo has expressed his ambition to challenge for world championships and represent his country on the global stage. “I will need very good doctors since I am about to carry Namibia on my shoulders,” he exclaimed, in a hint that he was going to be the one to bring back boxing glory to the country through world title victories.

His coach, Immanuel Moses indicated that the boxer’s triumph highlighted the need for greater support and investment in Namibian boxing. 

The clash between Flame Nangolo and Peter Pambeni was more than just a boxing match; it was a continuation of a long-standing rivalry between Namibian and Zimbabwean pugilists. Both countries have produced a wealth of talented fighters, and their battles in the ring have captivated fans for years.

Nangolo’s victory over Pambeni was a significant moment for Namibian boxing. It not only extended his undefeated streak but also added another chapter to the rivalry between the two nations. Pambeni, a respected veteran in Zimbabwean boxing, had previously faced Namibian opponents, including Siegfried Kaperu, Junius Amunyela, and Jeremiah Nakathila. While he had enjoyed success against some, he had also experienced setbacks, such as his defeat to Nakathila in 2019.

Nangolo, on the other hand, had also faced Zimbabwean fighters in his career. He had previously defeated Ndodana Ncube and Jeremiah Mhere, showcasing his dominance against opponents from across the border. Meanwhile, in the main supporting bout, Hafeni Ngesheya (AC Boxing Academy) defeated Abel Josef (Bulelo Boxing Academy) on points after a tightly contested ten rounder. 

Charles Shinima who recently signed from Nestor Sunshine Academy to AC Boxing Academy made light work of his fight against Stefanus Kakololo, grabbing a third-round knockout. 

Simon Angula won on points against the more experienced Johannes Andreas.

The bouts also served up two draws on the night. In what many say was the fight of the night, Ruan Rispel (AC Boxing) fought to a draw against Denzel Stefanus as did Robert Ndalelwa who had to share the spoils against Nicanor Alweendo.