Simon Jr ready for Lando

The 25-year-old Namibian welterweight boxer Harry Simon Junior, who boasts a record 20 undefeated fights and one loss, says he has been training hard for his fight against Angola’s Henrique Lando.

"I was preparing to go fight against Freddy Kiwitt of Germany on 24 November for the WBF World title, but due to some technicalities, the fight did not materialise. Despite the sad news, we stayed focused in the gym and this opportunity came our way, and we are more than ready for it."

About the upcoming encounter, he said: "This will be by far the hardest camp of my career. I believe he will bring out the best in me, and after this fight, there’s only one way to go, and that’s forward. I’m excited and looking forward to the biggest test of my career so far."

Strong opponent

Lando has a record of 14 fights, 9 wins and 5 losses. Simon Jr describes him as a strong, well-seasoned fighter who has faced a lot of greats.

“Winning this fight means everything. Lando is a highly ranked fighter and defeating him will help me boost my portfolio."

Simon added that he wants life-changing fights in the United States of America.

“I believe that they will only come after I beat this guy convincingly, and by convincingly, I mean by getting the stoppage – this will be a statement win for me.”

Much on offer

The boxing event will also feature 10 undercards.

Golden boy Tangeni Salom will fight Paulus Morgan over six rounds as the main supporting bout.

"They both promised fireworks and won’t leave this fight to go to the judges, so we will expect a quick night," Simon said.

Heavyweight rising star Naftalie Shooya is going to make his professional debut against Simasiku Martin over four rounds.

Spectators will also get to see Joiy 'Charlie' Nangolo and Martin Kambalili, who both hail from Swakopmund, showcase true boxing against their respective opponents from Windhoek.

“This will be the last professional boxing event in Namibia for the year, and we promise to put on a spectacular show for the whole nation," Simon promised.

Next champ

He added that the event aims to bring professional boxing to the Erongo Region.

"There are a lot of talented fighters who don’t get any recognition or opportunities to showcase their skills, and we are here to give it to them. 80% of boxers are unemployed and looking for a way to generate an income, and if they don’t fight, they don’t make money.

“The event aims to allow those boxers to fight and stay active while earning money, and most importantly, keeping them away from the streets. You never know where the next Namibian world champion will come from – it might be the coast," Simon noted.

The sole sponsor of the event is Knowledge Katti, who is funding it under the Knowledge Foundation.

“The entire boxing community in Erongo thanks Katti for all the effort and support. He was also responsible for funding Homecoming Volume 1, which took place on 13 May, where all of the fighters from Walvis Bay emerged victorious. I believe this one will have the same results," Simon concluded.