Micah turns to boxing, launches organisation

By JACK AMI
FORMER Kavieng MP Ben Micah has launched an organisation with the aim of helping look after the welfare of boxers in the country.
Founder Micah said Oceania Fight Promotions (OFP) was now an affiliated member of the Papua New Guinea Professional Boxing Council.
Micah has named boxing icon Martin Beni as the lead OFP promoter.
He said his objective was to manage OFP professionally for the boxers to benefit from their fights regardless of results.
“This is my priority and there is no secret we have to look after boxers’ welfare by paying them and not lying,” Micah said.
He said referee Brad Vocale, certified by the World Boxing Council and International Boxing Association (Aiba), would be involved with the organisation.
“Discussions will be held and negotiations will be done to have professional boxers sign contracts to only fight under OFP domestically and internationally,” Micah said.
“We are also involving the PNG Boxing Union for amateur boxers to fight in pro-boxing bouts.”
Micah said Aiba had opened its doors for amateur boxers to fight in professional bouts in the country and overseas.
“There are no restrictions so any amateur boxer can fight as a professional to earn a living,” he said.
He said Vocale would also help in brokering international bouts.
“Our first fight is confirmed for June 23 between national light heavyweight champion John Korake and Douglas Walo at the Sir John Guise Indoor Complex.
“The night will also include undercard for professionals and amateur boxers.
“This fight is a lead-up to Korake’s bout in Vanuatu next month.”
Micah said several companies had come on board to support the event and they were Lae Biscuit Company, bmobile, Universal Promotions and PNG Data Co.
He thanked them for their kind gesture.