Thrilling stalemates at Ninja-Harry boxing bonanza

Brian Munango
The highly anticipated showdown between Harry Simon Jr. and Abed Shikongo delivered 12 rounds of intense boxing action, culminating in a draw.
The bout, held under the banner of the MTC Salute Boxing Academy, saw the WBA African Welterweight champion Abed Shikongo retain his title.

Judge’s scores
Immanuel Frans: 117-111 for Simon Jr.
Lazarus “Lazy” Nainda: 116-112 for Shikongo.
Ricky Tshabalala: 114-114 draw.

The split decision left fans debating who deserved the victory, but both fighters earned respect for their performances. Simon Jr., known for his speed and precision, landed numerous sharp combinations, while Shikongo’s resilience and counterpunching kept the fight evenly matched.

After the fight, Shikongo shared his thoughts: “I’ve learnt a lot from this fight. The kid can throw punches and has skills. It was a good fight. He gave me some tough times. I was hoping to knock him out, but it didn’t work out. If he wants a rematch next year, we can do it – I’m in.”

Exhibition: Harry Simon Sr. vs. Paulus ‘Ninja’ Shimweefeleni
Boxing fans were treated to a special exhibition match between former two-weight world champion Harry ‘The Terminator’ Simon and high-profile ex-convict Paulus ‘Ninja’ Shimweefeleni. Starting at 3:00 on Saturday, the four-round exhibition thrilled spectators with moments of skill and grit.
Simon Sr., showcasing the experience that made him a world champion, landed crisp punches and controlled the pace. Ninja, a self-taught mixed-martial artist, displayed resilience and heart, refusing to back down. The exhibition ended in a draw, with both fighters earning applause for their efforts.

Results from the undercard
The undercard featured a mix of up-and-coming talents and experienced fighters, delivering exciting results:
Frans Amukwa defeated Samuel Martin.
Erasmus Hifivali defeated Edward Mbangu.
Alfeus Modino defeated Sakaria Kandjabanga.
Simon Angula defeated Immanuel David.
Tomas Ishidimbwa and Erastus Shapaka fought to a draw.
Frans Shoombe defeated Festus Nghuukwete.
Eslon Kalus defeated Samuel Nande.
Josef Ampweya defeated Filippus Amwaama.
Benhard Bernard defeated Erastus Fillemon.
Silas Shangandjua defeated Lazarus Shaningwa.
Kareb Shitana defeated Gabriel Shimweefeleni.
Tomas Shifiona defeated Lazarus Namalambo.
Salom Petrus defeated Merven Nguno to become the new Jr Welterweight champion.
Filemon Nghutenanye defeated Festus Simon.
Jonas Erastus defeated Jonathan Kasheeta to retain his flyweight title.

A Night to Remember
The event showcased the depth of Namibian boxing talent and proved why the sport continues to captivate fans across the nation. With drama, skill and determination on full display, the fights offered a mix of action and inspiration, leaving spectators eager for the next big event.