PNG Kickboxing to shift strategy following international defeats

The Papua New Guinea Kickboxing Federation (PNGKBF) President, Chief Stanley Nandex, has characterized the recent string of international losses over the weekend as a "strategic intervention," signaling a major overhaul in how the nation selects its representatives for the world stage.

Despite high expectations, all five PNG fighters returned without a win, suffering a mix of knockouts and unanimous points decisions. Nandex expressed disappointment, noting that while some veteran fighters were given opportunities as a reward for over 20 years of loyalty, their performances proved that they were "nowhere near" the required professional standard.

The weekend saw several high-profile upsets for the PNG camp, including the top prospects and leading fighters, Kondup Samson Wailo (95kg) and Clinton Hanku (68kg), with both suffering knockout losses. Hanku, competing in a four-man eliminator, exited in the semi-finals, taking home a $1,000 purse but missing out on the $5,000 grand prize. VeteransAdam Terry and Nathan Joe, loyalists, were granted their first major international opportunities but were both defeated via knockout. In a silver lining for the federation, newcomer Malken Pais impressed in his debut as a Rising Star. Despite losing on a split decision, Pais fought through to the final rounds, showing the grit Nandex is now looking for.

Nandex warned that "loyalty" will no longer guarantee a spot on the international roster: "We can not be comfortable losing fights. I have given some fighters five to seven international opportunities without improvement. "There are hundreds of hungry fighters waiting. Moving forward, the federation will utilise the "Last Man Standing" concept—a rigorous elimination process designed to identify the top five "cream of the crop" fighters. This local platform will serve as the primary career pathway for those seeking to enter the professional market, where purses currently start between $500 and $1,000.”

The PNGKBF is already pivoting toward its next challenge. Nandex confirmed that a new team is being prepared for an upcoming event in Naning City, China, on May 23, 2026. This trip is viewed as a critical entry point into the lucrative Asian market, and the selection process will be strictly merit-based to ensure PNG’s reputation remains intact among seven international organizations currently inviting PNG talent.

For more information, please do not hesitate to contact us on 74555662/72946725 or email:  pngkickboxingfederation@gmail.com