Special win for Nangolo

Coach Immanuel 'Imms' Moses' commitment and dedication to training and grooming Flame ‘Special One’ Nangolo has paid off after his protégé became an international title holder on Saturday night.

Nangolo had to withstand hard punches as he outclassed Zimbabwe's Ndondo Ncube to claim the belt by a unanimous decision, scoring 111-117, 112-116 and 110-118.

The 22-year-old boxer said he was happy with the result, which could signal the start of bigger things for him.

“I have been preparing for things like this since I was six and now I am just happy that I have managed to win this fight.

“I can say that it was one of the toughest fights of my career because Ncube gave me a good challenge.

“I have now proven that I am the best and can fight anyone in my division,” Nangolo said.

Feisty encounter

The Namibian dominated most of the rounds, even though he struggled to land clear punches on his opponent.

Ncube, who sustained a cut below his left eye, was determined to take the title home, but fell short of points, with Nangolo making sure that he registered as many points as he could.

The feisty encounter, which went right to the 12th round, eventually had one winner.

Moses expressed his satisfaction towards his boy’s victory, a reference to his affectionate title for Nangolo.

“When I am preparing him, I prepare him for nights like this where he comes up against tough opponents.

“He did us proud by winning this fight, even though Ncube also had a good fight.

“You can only know how good your boxers are if you put them against tough guys,” he said.

Other action

In other action, Johannes Andreas defeated Steven Shilomboleni in a lightweight bout, while Ruaan Rispel also came out victorious against Alweendo Nicanor in a lightweight fight.

Petrus Salomon beat Shanyangange Shanyangange in a featherweight bout before Shitana Kareb outclassed Sirongo Kasera in a heavyweight match.

Junior welterweight boxer Alpheus Shaanika defeated a brave Stephanus Kakolo in their exciting fight.