Namibian boxer Fillipus ‘Energy’ Nghitumbwa delivered on his promise by defeating former world champion Yukinori Oguni in his own backyard, Japan, via a technical knockout in the first round of an international super bantamweight non-title fight yesterday morning. 

This electrifying performance marks a significant milestone in Nghitumbwa’s career, further cementing his reputation as a formidable contender in the boxing world.

The fight concluded dramatically when the referee halted the bout after Oguni was knocked down for the third time in the round. 

Nghitumbwa’s relentless attack and impressive technique left the home crowd in shock, as he showcased not only his power, but also his exceptional skill in the ring. 

The 28-year-old Nghitumbwa, who now boasts a professional record of 17 fights, 15 wins, 2 losses, and 0 draws, is currently ranked 10th in his weight class by the World Boxing Organisation.

After the fight, Nghitumbwa wasted no time calling out Japanese boxing superstar Naoya Inoue, an unbeaten sensation known for his explosive fighting style and impressive record of 28 fights and 0 losses. 

Nghitumbwa also expressed interest in a rematch with Philippine boxer John Riel Casimero, who previously defeated him by points in May 2023 in Paranaque City. 

Casimero who was headlining the fight card against Saul Sanchez, made quick work of Sanchez following a first-round stoppage in their 10-round bout. 

Casimero came out swinging and quickly dropped the former world title challenger barely 30 seconds into the fight. The Filipino quickly followed up, dropping Sanchez again with a left hook.

Sanchez got up from the second knockdown but was shaky on his feet and was on the receiving end of Casimero’s relentless barrage. Unable to punch back, the referee stepped in to stop the contest, earning Casimero a technical knockout win at the 2:41 mark of round one.

Nghitumbwa’s promoter, Nestor Tobias, from the MTC Nestor Sunshine Tobias Boxing Academy, expressed immense pride in his boxer’s performance. “Great stuff from our champion for putting Namibia on the world map, and from here on the sky is the limit for Nghitumbwa,” he declared. Tobias also highlighted the historical significance of this victory, noting, “This is the second time we have had a big victory in Yokohama after Paulus ‘Hitman’ Moses recorded a victory for the world title in 2009.” 

-lmupetami@nepc.com.na