Simon vs Shimweefeleni bout cancelled amid medical concerns
The highly anticipated Harry ‘The Terminator’ Simon versus Paulus ‘Ninja’ Shimweefeleni boxing bout was called off on Saturday due to medical issues preventing Simon from competing safely.
This last-minute verdict at Oshakati Independence Stadium, coupled with other unforeseen issues, led to the overall cancellation of several bouts and a “heartfelt apology” from organiser Faith Foundation to the public.
In a statement issued on Monday, Faith Foundation spokesperson Ndeyapunye Vaenduanawa said all fighters were required to undergo a medical check before entering the ring.
“Unfortunately, the medical team determined that Simon’s condition rendered him unfit to fight,” he said.
Vaenduanawa said for other scheduled bouts, the Namibian boxing board required boxers to submit blood test results prior to fights. However, only some boxers complied with this crucial requirement, preventing them from competing.
The boxing bonanza was an initiative of the Faith Foundation to raise funds for its crime reduction and rehabilitation efforts.
Vaenduanawa said the event was not for profit and was dedicated to community upliftment, conceived as a platform to engage the public, spread awareness about the foundation’s cause, and garner support.
He said unforeseen circumstances led to a miscommunication with the national boxing authority, resulting in mixed messages reaching the public and confusion about whether the event was called off.
“The event was not for profit and operated without sponsors, with all funds being sourced directly from the foundation itself. All anticipated earnings were earmarked for [our] community outreach programmes,” he said.
Vaenduanawa indicated that Shimweefeleni, who is a member of the Faith Foundation, participated in the fight against crime on a voluntary basis, with other fighters also supporting the cause.
“Due to a low turnout, the foundation incurred a significant financial loss,” he said, while acknowledging the public’s disappointment.
He reassured the public of the foundation’s continued commitment to the fight against crime and expressed hope for collective efforts to achieve a crime-free Namibia.
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