Prominent local boxing promoter Nestor Tobias has described Naftalie Sheyapo as the future of Namibia’s heavyweight division.

The 28-year-old Sheyapo, who hails from Walvis Bay, has a record of 56 amateur fights, and a professional record of two wins by knockouts. He recently showcased his talent at the ‘Your Vote Counts’ Boxing Bonanza held at the Windhoek Country Club, where he beat Anele Bafana of Zimbabwe.

Tobias expressed pride in Namibia’s history of producing great fighters across various weight classes, while highlighting the long-standing struggle to find a standout heavyweight.

“I believe we have now found our heavyweight champion in this towering fighter from Walvis Bay,” he said. Sheyapo trains at the MTC Sunshine Boxing Gym in Windhoek, under the sponsorship of Pstbet and MTC Nestor Sunshine Tobias Boxing Promotions.

Tobias stressed the importance of maintaining an active fight schedule and providing Sheyapo challenging opponents to spur his development on. “A proper diet, comprehensive training programmes, and mental and physical fitness are essential components of nurturing our heavyweight prospect into a champion,” he explained.

To achieve this vision, Tobias called for the support of investors willing to back Namibia’s boxing talent and said he is planning five fights for Sheyapo in the coming year, with the goal of a go at the WBO regional title.

“Namibia is blessed with abundant talent. With the right financial support, we can achieve great success in individual sports. I believe Sheyapo has the potential to rival legends like Muhammad Ali, Mike Tyson, Anthony Joshua, and Tyson Fury. This will not only bring glory to our nation, but also put Namibia on the world map.

“Sheyapo’s promise and potential of cannot be overstated. As a stable, we extend our best wishes and support to this rising star, confident that his talent and dedication will take him far,” Tobias said. 

-lmupetami@nepc.com.na