Hanku knocks out opponent in Round 1

Clinton Hanku secured the 65kg Division in the recently concluded Kumite “Last Man Standing” Quarterfinals tournament held on Sunday, 28 June 2026, at Port Moresby’s Taurama Aquatic and Indoor Center.

Following a few professional fights in Australia early this year, Hanku entered the ring with confidence and knocked out his opponent in Round 1 of the highly anticipated tournament, booking his spot in the semifinals.

Hanku commended his opponent for having the courage to face him in the ring, attributing the dominant victory to his vast experience, especially after competing in a couple of bouts Down Under.

“I feel very proud of myself. My opponent from Madang is a good fighter, but because I have fought overseas, I used my experience to knock him out in Round 1,” he said.

“With greatest respect to him, I think I’m a good fighter and more advanced than he is. Hence, I took him out in the first round."

Despite stamping his authority in the quarterfinals, he admitted that the semifinals would be tough, noting that he would focus on improving his conditioning and fitness level.

“In preparation for the semifinals, I need to work on my conditioning because it’s very important in kickboxing,” Hanku shared.

“Fighting will be easy when I train hard. If I spend more time in training, it will strengthen me to last longer in the ring.

“It doesn’t mean I traveled out, so I’m the best. There’s more work to be done to improve my fighting skills and techniques.”

The Southern Highlander mentioned that he anticipates participating in the semifinals, which is scheduled to be hosted on August 30th in Goroka, Eastern Highlands Province.

“I look forward to fighting in the semifinal and facing any opponent. I’m confident of winning the semifinal and advancing to the grand final,” he said. 

Possessing international fighting experience, Hanku believes he has what it takes to reach the grand final in October and become a champion in his category to fight in the upcoming international event later this year. 

Clinton Hanku is the nephew of Stanley “The Headhunter” Nandex. The young, promising fighter has been involved in kickboxing, as well as other martial arts sports, for over five years and aims to make a name for himself while continuing his family’s legacy.