Nghitumbwa to trade gloves with Carrillo in May

The MTC Nestor Sunshine Boxing Academy has officially announced that its world-rated Fillipus “Energy” Nghitumbwa (17-2; 15 KOs) will face Colombia’s Leonardo Carrillo (20-1-1; 9 KOs) on 9 May in Windhoek.The pair will headline the main card of the “Tribute to His Excellency Dr Sam Shafishuna Nujoma Boxing Bonanza”, held in partnership with the Sam Nujoma Foundation to honour the late founding father’s enduring legacy.Nghitumbwa will defend his World Boxing Organisation (WBO) Global Super Bantamweight title, which he claimed last August, with the fight also serving as a World Title Eliminator, putting the winner in prime position for a shot at a world championship.Promoter hails Nujoma legacyIn a statement yesterday, promoter Nestor Tobias said the event celebrates a national icon who has significantly contributed to both sports and the broader development of the nation.“Dr Nujoma has been an extraordinary leader and served as patron of our academy,” said Tobias.Other bouts on the cardTobias confirmed that the event will feature top-rated fighters from the academy, as well as promising prospects aiming to defend their titles and boost their global rankings.“Carrillo is the WBA Fedelatin Champion, currently ranked 14th in the world. On the night, fans will also see Mateus Heita, Harry Simon Jr, Joy Nangolo, Naftalie Sheyapo and Martin Mukungu in action, along with other rising stars,” he said.The bouts are designed to improve fighters’ world rankings and pave the way for future championship opportunities.“Boxing is more than what happens inside the ring. It supports multiple sectors of the economy, from fitness and medical services to catering, marketing and even entertainment through ring girls,” added Tobias.Youth developmentThe bonanza also contributes to the local economy and serves as a platform for youth empowerment, helping young people from challenging backgrounds pursue careers and support their families.Boxing events of this magnitude can attract global audiences of over two billion viewers, both in-person and online, on a single night.The academy confirmed that the bonanza will become an annual event, recognising Dr Nujoma’s contributions while supporting the continued growth of boxing in Namibia.The academy encouraged leaders and business stakeholders to support the event, whether financially or in-kind, and thanked main sponsors MTC and co-sponsor Pstbet, with additional support from the Namibia Tourism Board and other partners to be confirmed.– mariud@nsh.com.na

Nghitumbwa to trade gloves with Carrillo in May

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Namibian Sun 2026-02-25

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Nghitumbwa to trade gloves with Carrillo in May

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Namibian Sun 2026-02-25

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