Southern Region secures top spot of the “Last Man Standing” Quarterfinals

The National Capital District (NCD) and Central Province dominated the recently concluded “Last Man Standing” Kickboxing Quarterfinals on Sunday, 28 June 2026, at Port Moresby’s Taurama Aquatic and Indoor Center. 

Representing the Southern region, the two Port Moresby-based clubs dominated the ring, winning approximately 40 fights. NCD, in particular, stamped its authority, claiming 32 wins out of 37 fights and helping the Southern region become the event’s champions.

Reigning title holder in the 84kg division and NCD coach, Nelson Samson, was overwhelmed with the result: “As the coach of NCD, I’m really proud of my boys’ performance, including the Central boys’ performance.

“The National Capital District has 15 established clubs across the city, and to win 32 fights out of 37 bouts is a massive achievement for NCD and Central, including the Southern region.

“The NCD and Central clubs used to compete against each other, but when it comes to representing the Southern religion, we work together to select the top fighters and ensure that we dominate the ring.

“From this tournament, we will pick the best fighters, especially the winners in the five categories featuring men and women, to represent NCD in the upcoming PNG Unity Games scheduled in November this year.” 

Samson thanked the CEOs of Brave Group Company and Trukai Rice Limited for their financial support to the club, which boosted the fighters’ spirit, who performed exceptionally well in the ring and made the sponsors proud. 

He also thanked the National Gaming Control Board (NGCB) for being the event’s platinum sponsor and extending his appreciation to Prime Minister James Marape’s undivided support, including New Ireland Governor, the Honorable Byron Chan, who committed K50,000 to the PNG Kickboxing Federation to host the semifinals.

The fighter-coach also acknowledged the PNG Kickboxing Federation President Stanley “The Headhunter” Nandex and his executive team for organizing a successful tournament, and congratulated the fighters and clubs for their participation. 

In addition, Nelson Samson and Jefferey Daka have skipped the elimination heats and booked their tickets in the decider. They will headline the Grand Final of the Last Man Standing event in October. 

Coach Samson explained that the fighters from both NCD and Central clubs will start their preparations early ahead of the tournament’s semifinals in August, noting that they are confident of reaching the big dance in October.