Sports
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he Rock 4
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Middleweight champion, is the first
Namibian to be crowned world champion
after he defeated American Winky Wright.
Before that Ambunda used to enjoy
playing football.
“Harry (Simon) inspired me to take up
boxing when he won that title. All those
years I worked hard so that one day I
could be like him. So today I am proud of
myself because I have achieved that longnurtured dream.”
In 2001, Ambunda started boxing under
the Boxing Development Programme that
was co-ordinated by the then Ministry of
Basic Education, Sport and Culture. He
has an illustrious career as an amateur,
having represented Namibia at both the
Olympics and Commonwealth Games.
His current professional record stands
at 20 victories (KO10). He brags his
thudding jabs and aggression in the ring
are what have earned him the moniker
“The Rock” from trainer and promoter,
Tobias.
However, despite a not-so-decent
salary in the military, Ambunda says he
has no plans to resign. After his victory
over Pungluang Sor Singyu, NDF Chief
Lt. General Epaphras Denga Ndaitwah
promoted him to the rank of Warrant
Officer Class 2 from that of Sergeant.
“I joined the army out of love and being
a soldier is something that I have always
wanted to do. Therefore, I have no
intention of resigning despite now being
a world champion. Boxing to me is like a
talent, while being a soldier is my career.”
As for how long will he continue
with boxing Ambunda says: “It will
depend on how far my body will carry
me, age does not matter because it is
just a number.”
Ambunda grew up with his
grandmother, whom he said taught him
life lessons that still apply to him today.
“When I was growing up, my granny
always told me to be humble and respect
others. She encouraged us to study hard,
although I am regretting I did not take
up studying but I am sure she is proud of
my achievements.”
Later in his life, he moved to Windhoek
where he completed Grade 12 at Ella du
Plessis High School in 1996.
Ambunda has urged the corporate
sector to assist in the development of
boxing in the country.
“The standard of boxing in the country
is very high. There is raw talent that need
to be nurtured, but the sport needs
their assistance from the private
sector - they should come on board
and support us”.
Paulus ambunda ...
1. in the ring,
2. with promoter/manager Nestor
“Sunshine” Tobias,
3. doing what he knows best,
4. receiving medals for National
championship,
5. with WBO Africa President
Andrew Smale,
6. yet another feather in the cap.
The Parade - Zimbabwe’s Most Read Lifestyle Magazine
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April 2013
Page 59