Lionel Ngondo defends WCBL title with knockout victory at Rand Airport

Lionel Ngondo strengthened his growing reputation in the amateur boxing ranks after defending his World Championship Boxing League (WCBL) title at the Rumble at Rand Airport event.

Ngondo entered the bout as the reigning WCBL champion and produced an impressive fourth-round knockout victory to leave the event as a double champion.

Describing the contest as a tough battle, Ngondo admitted he took time to settle into the fight before taking control.

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“When the fight started, I gradually gained momentum and picked up the pace. I managed to score a knockout in the fourth round,” he said.

“The first round was a bit difficult because I was still cold, but as the fight went on I started feeling stronger and began landing my punches.

“My opponent was a decent fighter and landed a few punches, but I was able to avoid taking any serious damage. I noticed he was getting tired, so I started throwing heavier punches. I landed a body shot and he went down.”

Ngondo said there was never any doubt in his mind that he had to retain his title.

“I feel great because we knew there was only one option, and that was to win,” he said.

Following his latest success, Ngondo is already preparing for his next bout on August 8, while his team is planning another title challenge.

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“The aim is to collect as many amateur titles as possible and build my name before turning professional next year. The next title we are targeting is the Universal Dabbler Champions (UDC) belt.”

The boxer believes he is mentally and physically ready to make the step up to the professional ranks but is trusting his coach’s guidance.

“My mindset is strong, and I believe I’m ready to turn professional now, but I’m listening to my coach. We have a great training programme. We train twice a day, focusing on conditioning, running and boxing, with additional conditioning sessions on alternate days.”

Ngondo now holds both the WCBL championship belts and the Title Combat Sport belt in the 57kg featherweight division, adding another milestone to his promising amateur career.