NGCB Last Man Standing Semi-Final ends on a high note

The National Gaming Control Board-sponsored Kumite Last Man Standing Kickboxing tournament concluded its Semi-Final series on Sunday, 30 August 2026, at Port Moresby’s Taurama Aquatic and Indoor Centre. 

Following Elimination Heats 1 and 2 in Goroka, Eastern Highlands Province, and the Quarterfinals in Port Moresby, the PNG Kickboxing Federation completed the Semifinals on August 30th and looks forward to hosting the Grand Final in October.   

PNG Kickboxing Federation President Stanley “The Headhunter” Nandex was impressed with the raw talent on display, congratulating the winners and commending the losers, as well as thanking those who participated in the semifinal event.

“The Kumite Last Man Standing semifinal tournament has been very impressive. It’s not about who has won the fight, but it’s important to see the real class of talents showcasing their skills in the ring,” Nandex said.

“We’ve concluded the semifinal and look forward to making a selection for the grand final. I’m happy to see the quality, style, and level of skills starting to improve, and we expect the fighters to be competitive in the grand final.

“When we look at the eliminations, it was quite challenging for the fighters, who have been challenged to improve their fighting skills. With the grand final, I am happy that we can produce the top fighters.”

President Nandex revealed that the winners would compete in the upcoming international tournament, slated for December.

“The winners will participate in the international challenge, which is scheduled on 5 December 2026,” he said.

“It’s entirely up to the fighters if the promoters can engage them for professional fights next year. This has been a dream, and it’s a journey we all have been looking forward to. 

“It’s good to see that the long-held dream of professionalizing kickboxing in the country is starting to bear results. We are heading in the right direction.” 

The Headhunter expressed his sincere gratitude to the National Gaming Control Board (NGCB) for sponsoring the newly introduced Kumite Last Man Standing Kickboxing series this year.

“I want to thank the major sponsor, the National Gaming Control Board, who has been part of our naming rights sponsor,” Nandex said. 

“Because of NGCB’s sponsorship and the partnership we have built, kickboxing has reached another level, so we sincerely thank NGCB for its support.” 

Mr. Nandex thanked his organizing committee, technical officials, the participating clubs and associations, fighters, coaching staff, team management, and the fans for their support in delivering a successful semifinal event.