Fighter wins kickboxing under-card title

By TRAVERTZ MABONE 

PAPUA New Guinea’s kickboxing sensation Rodney Warea made his mark at a recent championships held in Mendi, Southern Highlands, after taking out the under-card bout in explosive fashion.

Warea, who comes from the area, but fighting for Port Moresby, fought in the 60-65kg under-card bout against his Morobe opponent.

But his opponent was equal to the task never giving in to his opponent in the two-round bout. 

The fight ended in a tie, forcing officials to call for extra minute to decide the winner on points difference.

Warea was lucky to lay claim to the title after his opponent was penalised for technical fouls.

He has increased his wins to nine with his latest victory, with two draws and four losses after going through 15 fights in the last nine years.

“I went in to win and that is what I accomplished and I am quite happy with the victory,” Warea said.

He added that his fight would not be made possible without the support of his family and his employer and sponsor Bank South Pacific, especially the marketing department and the electronic banking sub-division who had shown immense support towards his preparation. 

BSP marketing and public relations manager Rosemary Mawe congratulated Warea for his achievement, adding the bank was ready to support their staff participate in similar events in the future.

She said the bank would help its employees promote and encourage healthy and fit lifestyles.

BSP also supported the Gobe team which also took part in the 2010 PNG Kickboxing championships.

Warea said he was hoping to be selected for international bouts in Fiji, Brisbane and Florida next year.

He also intends to turn professional in the future.