Baki wants more fights before retiring

UNDEFEATED super lightweight champion Kevin “Iron Man” Baki, pictured, said he was ready to call an end to a professional boxing career but was keen to get more fights before hanging up his gloves.
The 46-year-old Kairuku man said this after Queensland-based World Boxing Council (WBC) referee and judge Brad Vocale presented him with a certificate of participation in recognition of his input and contributions as coach, trainer and ring official after the Indo-Pacific Boxing Association (IPBA) titles in Port Moresby on Dec 22.
“I want to thank WBC and Brad Vocale, PNG professional Boxing Gym president Elvin Wafewa and patron Ben Micah for acknowledging my contributions to pro boxing,” Baki said.
Baki said he held the 63.5kg title since 2009 and despite having had some tough fights had been undefeated so far.
“I want to fight a few more times this year before retiring next year and coaching and training,” Baki said.
“Boxing will always be in my heart and I will always be involved the sport but age is catching up and that’s why this will be my last year as a fighter.
“I want to retire undefeated and set a mark and retire with the belt,” Baki said.
Baki’s last fight was against Solomon Islands Henry George in 2017.
Baki knocked out George in the second round of a scheduled 10-rounder.
Baki admitted he enjoyed the preparation and lead up and taking on different challengers and would miss the ring but wanted to go out a winner.
The father of four runs the the Hohola Youth Boxing Club which he started in 2007.
To date the club has had local amateur standout Henry Umings train under its roof.
Umings made his pro debute last month winning the the Indo-Pacific Boxing Association bantamweight title.
Other notable fighters to train under Baki at the HYBC have been lightweight contender Junior Kauka Raka.
Baki, from Waima village, Kairuku, Central, was presented with the award after undergoing a boxing coaching and refereeing course run by Vocale last month.
Baki said while he planned to referee and coach professional boxing after retirement he was hoping to sign with the PNG Professional Boxing Gymnasium for fights this year.