Nghitumbwa crowned WBO Global champion
Boxing
Namibia's Fillipus "Energy" Nghitumbwa is the new WBO Global Super Bantamweight champion
Namibia’s Fillipus “Energy” Nghitumbwa delivered a spectacular knockout late in round six to defeat Mxolisi Zuma, handing the South African his first career loss after a perfect run of ten consecutive knockout victories.The win at the Windhoek Country Club crowned Nghitumbwa the new WBO Global Super Bantamweight champion, improving his professional record to 17 wins (15 by knockout) and two losses on points. Already ranked number eight by the WBO and 15th by the WBC before the fight, the Namibian star’s latest triumph is expected to push him even closer to a world title opportunity.
“I am really grateful for the team I have. They are the ones behind my success, from my sparring partners to my promoter. I am really happy to have them in my corner,” Nghitumbwa said.
The night featured an action-packed undercard of 10 bouts, offering fans plenty of excitement before the main event.
In a Super Flyweight Championship showdown, Erastus Shapaka and Fabianus Lamek went toe-to-toe for 10 intense rounds, both showing grit and skill. Shapaka edged the contest by majority decision to retain his title.
The national featherweight title was decided when Frederick Nghutenanye beat Abel Joseph via a unanimous points decision, extending his perfect professional record to 11 wins.
In the heavyweight division, Naftalie Sheyapo defeated Tobias Festus, while Joy Nangolo overcame Tobias Amunyela in a bantamweight contest.
Earlier in the night, Nestor Thomas outpointed John Herman in a bantamweight bout, and Martin Mukungu got the better of Andreas Endjala. Sem Mathew also triumphed over Paulus Shonena in their featherweight meeting.
Debutants Joseph Kautondokwa and Ananias Njimbe entertained the crowd in a lively super-bantamweight contest, while Dula Benjamin outclassed Divas Mungongo in their bantamweight clash.
The evening opened in explosive fashion when Paulus Filipus knocked out Festus Semion just 2 minutes and 47 seconds into the first round. The result improved Filipus’ record to two wins and one loss, while Semion slipped to two wins and six losses.
With Nghitumbwa now holding the WBO Global title, confidence is high in his camp that a world title shot is within reach.