A Historical Partnership Forged to Send PNG Fighters to Australia for Long-Term Training and Development

In a landmark development for Papua New Guinea combat sports, the PNG Kickboxing Federation (PNGKBF) has officially announced a joint venture with the National Youth Development Authority (NYDA) and Steve Jez Premier Kickboxing Promotion to promote professional world-class fighters.  

This strategic partnership will see PNG fighters based in Sydney, Australia, for long-term high-performance training and professional engagement. The initiative marks the realization of a lifelong vision for PNG’s legendary "Headhunter," Chief Stanley Nandex, who transitioned from world champion to mentor and promoter. Nandex has finally finalized an arrangement to provide a sustainable pathway for the next generation of PNG warriors to compete on the global stage in  Kickboxing, Pro-Boxing, and Mixed Martial Arts (MMA). 

Through this agreement, selected athletes will be based in Sydney under the guidance of retired Australian world champion and renowned promoter Steve Jez. Unlike short-term tournament trips, this program has faced many challenges, and it is designed for longevity, with fighters staying for one or two years to integrate into the professional circuit. 

"I have worked with Stanley Nandex and the PNGKBF for over two decades. I am happy to provide my support to bring these high-potential fighters over. We have already secured commitments from corporate sponsors to take these athletes on board, providing them with part-time employment while they settle into their new training environment in Australia,” Jez said. 

The National Youth Development Authority (NYDA), an agency of the PNG Government, has played a pivotal role in this partnership. Following a successful MoU signed in 2025, the NYDA views combat sports as a vital tool for youth engagement and professional development. 

Mr. Roby Duri, Deputy Director General of the NYDA, expressed his enthusiasm during a recent meeting in Sydney. 

“The PNG Kickboxing Federation has been one of the most successful sporting organizations in our country. We are impressed with this arrangement and will continue to support initiatives that provide our youth with world-class opportunities. This is about more than sport; it’s about nation-building and providing real career paths,” Mr. Duri stated.

The federation is initially processing documents for ten members to ensure the success and reputation of the program is well-scrutinized as part of the requirements and processes.

PNGKBF President, Chief Stanley Nandex, has confirmed a strict two-phase selection process for overseas placements:

• The first five fighters will be selected based on athletic potential, strict discipline, and a commitment to a sober lifestyle (no alcohol or smoking); and

  
  

• The second five will follow once the initial group has successfully settled into the Australian system.

"PNG has immense talent, but we have been lacking good facilities, and importantly, the coaching is not consistent to reach the top. I had to go to Thailand and Australia to base there and train to become a world champion. This partnership changed that. We are opening doors for our youths not just to fight, but to succeed in life,” said Nandex.  

PC: Supplied