SHP fighters dominate Last Man Standing Semi-Final tourney

The Southern Highlands Province Kickboxing Association (SHPKBA) imposed its presence in the recently concluded NGCB Kumite Last Man Standing Semi-Final event on Sunday, 30 August 2026, at Port Moresby’s Taurama Aquatic and Indoor Centre.

SHPKBA’s fighters did not travel to Port Moresby to make up the numbers; they came to the nation’s capital on a mission and made their presence felt in the ring, winning 8 fights with no defeats.

Experienced fighter and SHPKBA President Bata Kai was overwhelmed with the results, praising the 8 fighters, including himself, for making their families and province proud. 

“As the president, coach, instructor, and fighter, I can not express how proud I am of my students. Their hard work has paid off,” Kai said. 

“It was not easy. We faced very strong and skilled opponents, but I would like to congratulate my boys on the win in their respective divisions. 

“It was very tough for all of us, but because we prepared well and came, we fought until our last breath. We did not back down. 

“I’m really happy for my boys. We made our families, sponsors, team management, coaching staff, fans, and the province proud.”

While crediting the fighters, Kai singled out Kingston David, who fought in the 80kg division and won through technical knockout.

He thanked the PNG Kickboxing Federation under the leadership of President Stanley “The Headhunter” Nandex, the technical officials, and the organizing committee for hosting a successful semifinal event.

“I want to thank the PNG Kickboxing Federation and Chief Stanley Nandex for hosting this tournament,” Kai said.  

“Without their support, I don’t think we will take part in such tournaments. So, a big thank you to Chief Nandex, the PNG Kickboxing Federation, and NGCB for hosting this event.”  

He also acknowledged the sponsors and those who have stood behind the fighters since the elimination rounds to the penultimate event.

“I want to thank those who have supported us since the Last Man Standing tournament started up until today,” Kai said.

“We sincerely thank Gibson Palipe, Peter Nupiri, and Steven Temo for their support, which has boosted the fighters’ spirits, where they performed well in the ring and won.”  

President Kai admitted that the job is not done yet, with the fighters shifting their focus back to training and preparing for the grand final in October.

The Southern Highlander urged the provincial government and business houses to support the fighters as they look forward to the grand final.