Unknown Boxer from ARoB Makes Waves

Elias Konou Basa, a silent boxing champion from Buin District in the Autonomous Region of Bougainville (ARoB), has been a dominant force in the ring for a few years. Despite his success, he doesn’t get the recognition that he deserves. 

Growing up in the Leroutu village of Makis Constituency in South Bougainville, Basa didn’t know anything about boxing. His interest in boxing grew when he watched a movie titled ‘Balbo’ starring Sylvester Stallone, but he didn’t take up boxing while in Bougainville. 

However, when he moved to Port Moresby, he began participating in the code at five years old while attending Waigani Primary School. A senior coach from ARoB named Paul Lare, who was a neighbor of Basa, took him under his wings and mentored the aspiring boxer. 

Once the Leroutu native entered the ring, he fell in love with boxing and never stepped out of it again. He has honed his craft and made great strides over the years, making a name for himself.

After taking part in amateur boxing for a couple of years, Basa transitioned to professional boxing in 2012. However, a bad incident happened that year when one boxer from Manus died in the ring during a brutal bout, which forced Basa to quit boxing. 

He took a two-year break and re-entered professional boxing in 2014. From then onwards, he had stamped his authority and won eight straight professional fights - 4 KOs, 1 draw, and 3 wins by points.

The Bougainville man mentioned that the incident in 2012 had affected his promising career, but he had reignited his passion following a short break. Despite a lack of support, he continued to win fights. 

“In terms of professional boxing, I started fighting in 2012. A professional bout took place between two fighters and the fighter from Manus died. Having experienced the incident first-hand, I made up my mind to take a break from boxing,” Basa said.

“After a short break, I made my comeback in 2014. The promoters hosted some bouts, so I decided to take part in those fights. During my professional boxing career in PNG, I won eight fights with one draw.

“I am an unknown boxer. I don’t have any sponsorship or a promoter to market me. With the little resources I have, I utilize whatever is at my disposal and perform to the best of my ability.”

The eight-time professional champion is now preparing to make his international debut in Sydney next month. He began training two weeks ago and is working hard to win his maiden international bout on foreign soil. 

However, there are some setbacks. He is waiting for his visa approval and sponsorship to make this overseas trip possible. Though it’s challenging, Basa remains optimistic and keeps his fingers crossed.