Salute gears for top card

Boxing
Jesse Kauraisa
  • 3 Days Ago 24 June 2025
Salute Boxing Academy’s Abed Shikongo has intensified his training ahead of his international boxing bout, which forms part of the academy’s upcoming boxing bonanza scheduled for 5 July at the Windhoek Country Club.

Shikongo will face Byson Gwayani of Malawi in a 10-round welterweight fight – his first bout of the year.

“I have been training hard for this one and I am ready for Gwayani – and he’ll have to be ready for me. I want to thank my sparring partners and the academy for making this fight possible.

“I’ve watched Gwayani fight and I know how to deal with him in the ring,” Shikongo said.

The Namibian fighter boasts a professional record of 10 wins and one draw, while Gwayani has 28 fights under his belt, with 16 wins and 12 losses.

Shikongo last fought against Harry Simon Jr in December 2024, a bout that ended in a draw.

“I know my fans were disappointed after the Harry Junior fight, but this will be a different story.

“I’m inviting all my fans to come out in numbers to watch me dismantle my opponent,” he added.

This will be Shikongo’s first international bout against a foreign opponent since turning professional.

There will be approximately 19 other fights on the night, including three international bouts and two national title fights.

Kareb Shitana and veteran boxer Anthony Jarmann will square off in a cruiserweight international title fight, while Salom Petrus and Mervin Nguno will battle it out for the welterweight national title.

Namibia’s Immanuel Josef will trade leather with Theo Nxayiphi of South Africa, while Nathanael Kakololo will go up against David Shinuna.

Filimon Nghutenanye will feature in the main supporting bout against South Africa’s Sihle Jelwana.