For the sport of boxing in Papua New Guinea (PNG) to excel, there is need for more promotion of the sport to take place.
This was highlighted by PNG Boxing Rep Junior Kauka Raka when stressing that PNG Boxing needs more promoters to come on board and sponsor fighters in tournaments.
Mr. Raka said that there are two main boxing categories in the country, the Armature and the Professional Boxing and currently there is only one Promoter, Oceania Fight Promoters, which was founded by Late Ben Micah.
“Oceania Fight Promoters has been the sole promoter for fighters in the country, which has been promoting and sponsoring fighters, however, we need more promoters in order for the sports to grow to new heights.”
“PNG Professional Boxing Control Board Chairman Mr. Bernard Foam has been in the front line pushing professional boxing and seeking promoters to come on board and we are hopeful that one day we can have more promoters coming onboard.”
Raka said big countries like Australia and Asian countries invest more in boxing because they see big money in boxing.
He said professional fighters enter the arena of World Titles such as Heavyweight: WBA, Bridger weight: WBA, Light heavyweight, Super middleweight, Middleweight, Super welterweight and other world titles.
“That is where the big money is, and if we have promoters that promote fighters who do better in the national tournaments and then later in the international stage, we will be looking at over thousands and even hundreds of thousand of kina.”
Mr. Raka explained that for men the competition is a bit hard as they would have to go through many stages and challenges to come out as the best fighters, however, it is not the same for the female category.
“Because there are not many women fighters, there are not many fights or steps to go through, once they turn pro and fight in 1 or 2 international fights and do better, they can become world champions and that is a good career path and financial stability for women in boxing.”
With almost 20 boxing clubs in the Nation’s Capital and other boxing clubs around the country, the need for promoters to come on board is very big.
“Having Promoters can mean we can scout more talents, who are recognized and have at least some financial supports to help them in their boxing journey as well as having a stable life outside or the arena too.”
There are pathways and discipline involved in boxing, thus more kids, youths and girls are urged to take up boxing, to stay sharp, healthy and focus on life.