NCD-Central Kickboxing Event ends on a high note, highlighting Grassroots Talent

The International Trial Kickboxing Championships, held over the weekend on Saturday, November 15, 2025, at the Rita Flynn Indoor Stadium, concluded on a high note, marking another significant milestone for the sport in Papua New Guinea.

President of the PNG Kickboxing Federation, Chief Stanley Nandex, expressed his immense satisfaction with the event’s outcome, particularly praising the strong performances from both male and female divisions.

"It was an incredible success. To see the dedication and skill displayed by fighters from the grassroots levels of both NCDC and Central Province is truly inspiring,” said Nandex. 

“Kickboxing is not just for the highlands as we witnessed - the coastal regions, particularly Central Province, have tremendous potential."

The event showcased talent from a wide array of rural areas and settlements, including Sogeri, Rouna, 17 Mile, Manuti, Brown River, Gereka, Morata, 9 Mile, Hohola, Waigani, 6 Mile, and Sabama.

A key highlight was the unprecedented participation of over 20 female fighters, alongside the amazing display of skills from children as young as seven and eight years old took part in the undercard fights to the main events. 

The final results saw Central Province dominate the trial match, securing the overall winning trophy.

Following the high-stakes trials, a pool of 12 fighters were selected for 2026 international events, with provinces having an equal distribution in the selection - 6 from NCD and 6 from Central. 

Vice Chairman of the Selection Committee, Master Jamuga Stone, assured that the selection process was robust and fair.

"The selections were done fairly, with no bias or nepotism, purely based on performance. Martial Arts, Kickboxing, and all combat sports hold immense potential in this country,” stated Master Stone.

The event also welcomed esteemed guests from the taekwondo community, Olympians Kevin Kassman (68kg, 2024 in Paris), Maxemillion Kassman (68kg, 2016 in Brazil), and Gibson Mara (+80kg, 2024 in Paris).

The taekwondo team, currently preparing for the Olympics in China, was accompanied by their coach and General Secretary, Eddie Kassman, who assisted in presenting awards to the victorious kickboxers.

The Olympians shared their valuable experiences during the presentation, emphasizing that reaching the top requires total commitment and sacrifice.

Chief Nandex also made a special offer to the taekwondo delegation, pledging his support to assist the Olympians in maintaining their best form for the upcoming competitions and the Olympic dream to become a reality. 

Nandex, who was also once a Gold Medalist for taekwondo in 1998 in Guam, a Bronze medalist in Tahiti, Papeete, in 1995 and 2003 in Fiji. 

Master Jamuga Stone, who mentored the ‘Headhunter’ for his first international events that started in Sydney (1989) and Melbourne (1992), underscored the power of the sport.  

"Martial arts can prove it to the world, and Stanley Nandex is already a brand and a testament to what we can offer," said Master Stone. 

Nandex concluded the night by offering strong advice and encouragement to the newly selected kickboxers.

"To all the selected fighters, I urge you to train hard. It is time to organize your passports and be prepared for the 2026 international events,” Nandex affirmed.

Mr. Nandex also thanked the National Youth Development Authority (NYDA) for supporting the tournament.