SHP fighter calls for support

A kickboxing fighter from Southern Highlands Province appeals to the Provincial Government, District MPs, and local businesses to support athletes competing in kickboxing, boxing, rugby league, basketball, and other sporting codes throughout the country.

Kingston David, who hails from Buiebi in the Imbonggu District, urged the provincial government and district MPs, as well as business houses, to back the Southern Highlands athletes in various disciplines to pursue their dreams and represent the province with pride. 

David began his kickboxing career in Mendi and progressed to an elite level, quickly rising to fame following a few bouts domestically and internationally. Despite his success in the ring, a lack of financial support has hindered his career, as well as the other SHP athletes.

“Many times, when I traveled out of Mendi to fight, I have not received any support from the provincial government and my local MP, and I think many athletes in the province have faced similar problems,” he stressed.

David revealed that he was once a street kid, but kickboxing has molded and shaped his life, so now he wants to apply his experience and help young men who are involved in illegal activities to turn their lives around. 

He expressed that kickboxing, boxing, and many martial arts codes teach about discipline, instilling values like respect in young men and helping them move away from addictions, including alcohol consumption, stealing, and other reckless behaviors.

The upcoming kickboxing star said he is passionate about helping his peers leave those bad activities, but needs financial support to engage youths in kickboxing events and other effective community initiatives.

“I have been there, and I know how it feels to be on the street. I want to help the young boys change the narrative, but I need support from the provincial government, my local MP, and business houses,” he pleaded. 

“The boys on the streets look for inspiration. When they see us, they will relate because we were once part of them. Hence, it’s important that as their peers, we need to talk with the boys and try to change their mindset to make them become good, law-abiding citizens.” 

Since moving to Port Moresby, David has been training under the Desert Storm Kickboxing Club. He acknowledged the club President Nelson Samson, who has played an important role in his growth. 

The lanky kickboxer also thanked the Papua New Guinea Kickboxing Federation (PNGKBF) under the leadership of President Stanley “The Headhunter” Nandex, describing Chief Nandex as a role model to many martial artists in PNG, especially in the sport of kickboxing.

The Southern Highlander is preparing to fight in the Last Man Standing Semifinal. However, he needs support to move back and forth to train and prepare himself well for the upcoming event. The tournament will be hosted on August 30, 2026, in Port Moresby.