Aletta Shikololo
There is one dream that many fathers have from the moment they first hold their sons – to have them carry on a legacy they begun and it’s no different from the former world-boxing champion, Harry Simon and his son Harry Simon Jr.
By adopting a hands-on approach, which spoke to his own experiences in the ring, Simon Jr says growing up he always wanted to assume his father’s role and now aspires and determined to become a world champion. “Growing up, I always watched boxing and saw my father training and it was not a choice for me to start boxing. It was destined to happen,” said the harbour town native.
The super lightweight national champion remains undefeated after 12 fights in the professional ranks, with nine of his 11 wins coming by way of knockouts.
“So far, I am only happy with my boxing record, being 12-0 is not easy. And I am happy for that, as far as my achievements go, I’m not satisfied yet,” he said.
Sport greatness is most often associated with notions like hard work and dedication but sometimes inherent excellence succeeds all.
Commenting on this, Simon Jr says his father is his biggest inspiration and he played a major role in his boxing career, however, he is writing his own story.
“I want to be remembered as one of the best fighters to ever come out of Africa,” he mentioned. Asked who he wishes to fight in the future, the confident young man was quick to mention that his dream fight would be with American professional boxer, Regis Prograis for the WBO Or WBC world title.
“What separates me is my passion for the sport, my work ethic, and my ring IQ. I don’t just go into the ring and fight; I study my opponents’ moves and I see everything happening in the ring that’s what separates me,” he said.
– ashikololo@nepc.com.na