Professional boxing returns to Port Moresby with international headline bout

Some of the local fighters who will participate in the September 12 event at Crown Hotel (Image: NBC News / Wari Ila)

Professional boxing will return to Port Moresby next month, featuring a highly anticipated international main event alongside a showcase of local talent.

Oceania Fight Promotions [OFP] confirmed the fight night will take place at the Crown Hotel on the evening of Saturday, September 12.

The headlining bout brings international flair to the nation's capital, featuring Papua New Guinea’s own Liranda Kidu against Thailand’s Pornchita Pimthong in a heavyweight [83kg] clash.

In addition to the main event, the card will feature nine local undercard bouts. These exhibition matches will showcase both male and female fighters competing across various divisions in the lead-up to the main showdown.

OFPL chief executive officer and licensed promoter Maryanne Millie said the event reflects steady, well-managed progress for professional boxing in PNG.

"This proactive effort highlights the value of a strong sponsor-promoter partnership," Millie said.

"It creates opportunities for young boxers and youth to engage in healthy, productive ways to enhance their livelihoods by excelling in their chosen sport."

Millie added that such occasions assist fighters and their families while promoting sports tourism, economic activity, and gender equality.The tournament is staged under the principal sponsorship of Kumul Consolidated Holdings Limited [KCHL] as the naming rights sponsor, along with support from the corporate sector.Millie extended appreciation to the National Government, Prime Minister James Marape, the Sports Ministry, and corporate partners for their backing, while urging other business houses and State-Owned Enterprises [SOEs] to support the code.