Luanda: Angolan boxer Avelino Luzito achieved a significant milestone on Saturday in Luanda by securing the first knockout (KO) in the international boxing tournament held in celebration of Angola’s 50th anniversary of independence. Luzito’s victory over Namibian competitor Tuhafeni Tshama in the opening round propelled him to the final of the 75 kg category.
According to Angola Press News Agency, the last day of competition, scheduled for Sunday, will see Luzito facing Mwenekabwe Tshana from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) in a highly anticipated match. Another standout performance came from Angolan boxer Morais Orlando, who triumphed over South African Simamkele Demesi in the 67 kg category. Orlando, initially trailing in the first two rounds, turned the tide by overpowering his opponent and forcing the referee to halt the bout, thus securing a victory by RSC (opponent’s incapacity).
The Angolan national team showcased impressive performances, winning seven out of eleven semifinal bouts while losin
g four. On Sunday, the team is set to participate in 13 finals, with two events featuring female competitors.
The international boxing tournament is hosted at the Cidadela Sports Pavilion as a part of the festivities marking the half-century milestone of Angola’s independence.
It brings together 69 athletes from Angola, South Africa, Congo Brazzaville, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Mozambique, Namibia and Zimbabwe.