In Namibia’s boxing circles, the name Siegfried ‘Blackie’ Kaperu, affectionately known as SBK, commands immense respect.
From humble beginnings on a farm to shaping some of the country’s greatest boxing champions, Kaperu’s journey is a story of dedication, discipline and passion for the sport.
Today, regarded as one of Namibia’s most decorated boxing trainers, Kaperu’s influence stretches far beyond his own days in the ring. The retired former national flyweight champion has played a pivotal role in guiding several fighters to world championship glory.
Born and raised on the farm Otjimbojo, Kaperu was introduced to boxing at a young age. Inspired by his older brothers, who were themselves champions, he quickly made the sport part of his identity.
“I was only 10-years old when I started taking boxing seriously. My two brothers, ‘Quick’ and Joe ‘Killer’ Kaperu, were champion boxers, so it was natural for me to follow in their footsteps,” he said.
His formal journey in the sport began when he joined the Namibian Boxing Club in 1990, where he started honing his skills as a young boxer. Those early years laid the foundation for a lifelong relationship with boxing, first as a competitor and later as a trainer.
After hanging up his gloves, Kaperu transitioned into coaching, where he would make an even greater impact on Namibian boxing. As a trainer at the MTC Nestor Sunshine Tobias Boxing and Fitness Academy, he has helped shape the careers of several elite fighters.
Among the most notable names he has worked with are Paulus ‘Hitman’ Mose, Paulus ‘The Rock’ Ambunda, and Julius Indongo, all of whom went on to claim world titles.
Under his guidance, Moses captured the WBA lightweight title, Ambunda became a WBO and IBO bantamweight champion and Indongo made history as the unified light-welterweight world champion, holding the WBA, IBF and IBO titles simultaneously.
Reflecting on his success as a trainer, Kaperu credits teamwork and long-term development as the key ingredients in producing champions.
“Our motto has always been teamwork. You must follow a boxer from grassroots development at the club level, through regional and national championships, and then international participation. That’s where you can truly determine their potential,” he said.
For Kaperu, building a champion goes beyond physical training. He believes that mental strength is equally crucial in preparing fighters for the pressures of the ring.
“In my opinion, physical and mental fitness go together as one package,” he says. “Using psychology in preparation helps break down the pressure a boxer might face before a big fight.”
Despite his success, Kaperu admits the journey has not always been easy. Financial challenges remain one of the biggest obstacles in developing boxers.
“The team needs proper nutrition, training equipment, medical check-ups, physiotherapy and other essentials,” he explains. “Without financial support, it becomes very difficult to give fighters the preparation they deserve.”
Looking ahead, Kaperu hopes that his contribution to Namibian boxing will be remembered fondly within the sport.
“To be honest, if anyone in boxing: trainers, referees, promoters or people within the sport remembers me as a stand-up man who could train fighters and was a good coach, I would be happy with that. Anything above that would just be a bonus,” he said.
He also has a message for aspiring trainers and young boxers hoping to reach the top.
“As a trainer, you must have courage and strong objectives to achieve the best with your fighters. Discipline, belief and dedication are key. Devote yourself to what you are doing and keep working hard every day of your life, and eventually you will enjoy the fruits of your labour.”
For Kaperu, the philosophy that guided his career remains simple and timeless.
“No pain, no gain.”