Namibian boxer Fillipus ‘Energy’ Nghitumbwa has strengthened his case for a world title opportunity, with his camp now calling for his next fight to be recognised as a final eliminator for a global championship bout.
Nghitumbwa had an impressive first-round knockout victory over former world champion Yukinori Oguni last year.
The hard-hitting Namibian delivered a dominant performance, stopping the experienced Japanese fighter in the opening round to underline his credentials as one of the rising contenders in the super bantamweight division.
Following the win, Nghitumbwa’s camp renewed calls for the four major boxing sanctioning bodies to recognise his upcoming fight on 9 May 2026 against Leandro Jose Blanc as a final eliminator for a world title bout.
According to his promoters, the Namibian has done everything required by the World Boxing Organisation to position himself for a shot at the global crown.
“Energy has remained disciplined and hardworking, collecting regional titles and defeating highly ranked opponents along the way. It is time for the sanctioning bodies to grant him the opportunity he has earned to fight for the world title,” his promoter Nestor Tobias from the MTC Nestor Sunshine Tobias Boxing and Fitness Academy said.
They added that African fighters often face challenges breaking into the sport’s highest level, but Nghitumbwa’s growing record and recent performances have proven he belongs among the division’s elite.
With another crucial bout scheduled for May, Nghitumbwa’s camp says they are ready to face any opponent at the top of the division, including undisputed champion Naoya Inoue.