A capacity crowd packed the Multi-Purpose Centre in Swakopmund on Friday night as the Local is Lekker Boxing Bonanza delivered an evening of thrilling action, with Joy Nangolo and Fredrick Nghitenanye emerging as Namibia’s newest national champions.
Hosted by the MTC Sunshine Academy and co-sponsored by PstBet, the event featured two national title bouts and an entertaining undercard that showcased the growing depth of Namibian boxing.
The headline bout saw Joy Nangolo capture the Namibian Bantamweight National Title after overcoming a determined challenge from Fabian Lamek. The contest was fought at a relentless pace, with Lamek pushing Nangolo throughout, but the new champion combined power, composure and ring intelligence to secure a deserved victory.
The co-main event for the Junior Lightweight National Title was equally competitive, with Fredrick Nghitenanye defeating Paulus Shonena on points. Shonena applied constant pressure throughout the contest, but Nghitenanye’s slick southpaw style, technical precision and tactical discipline proved decisive as he claimed the national crown.
The sold-out venue created an electric atmosphere, with enthusiastic supporters cheering on the country’s top fighters throughout the evening.
Following the success of the event, the MTC Sunshine Academy reiterated its commitment to expanding boxing across Namibia while calling for greater government support to help grow the sport.
The academy said a structured partnership and direct funding model would enable boxing programmes to reach every region of the country, describing the sport as an important tool for nation-building, youth empowerment and social development.
Officials stressed that increased investment in boxing could help address youth unemployment by creating opportunities for young people through discipline, skills development and professional sporting careers.
The academy also expressed gratitude to title sponsor MTC, co-sponsor PstBet and the wider business community for their continued support, saying their investment is helping elevate Namibian boxing while creating opportunities for the next generation of champions.
By Rudi Bowe
