Erasmus Shalihaxwe
Boxing promoter Nestor Tobias says it is not easy for African boxers to get international fights, but Namibians like Jeremiah Nakathila and Jon Ndjolonimus have earned their place.
Tobias, founder and owner of the MTC Nestor Tobias Sunshine Boxing and Fitness Academy, made the remarks on Tuesday while announcing upcoming international bouts for the two fighters.
Nakathila is set to face American prospect Abdulah Mason on June 7 June 2025 in Virginia, United States.
This will be his fifth fight in the U.S. He first appeared in the country in 2021 when he fought Shakur Stevenson.
In 2022, he knocked out Miguel Berchelt. He later lost to Raymond Muratalla in May 2023 and Ernesto Macado in November 2023.
Nakathila has 30 professional fights, 26 wins by knockout, and four losses. He began his pro career in 2013 against fellow Namibian David Shinuna.
Meanwhile, Ndjolonimus will face Simon Zachenhuber in Germany on 19 July 2025.
Tobias said it takes hard work and consistency for African boxers to be noticed.
“You don’t suddenly land these fights.” You have to qualify for these fights; nobody will just call you to go and collect a cheque overseas. You have to earn it, so our boxers have earned the right to fight on the international stage. Somebody like Nakathila has been on that stage for a very long time,” said Tobias.
Nakathila said he is confident and has nothing to fear.
“There is nothing new under the sun; these are fights that I am used to. So there is nothing that can intimidate me or whatever,” he said.
Ndjolonimus also said he is ready and will be well prepared.
“It is good news for me and my camp. Enough time to prepare and not make excuses when the fight comes. I am going to bring victory to Namibia and maybe the whole of Africa because we are one,” he said.
