Namibia’s pugilist Vikapita “Beastmaster” Meroro has retired after a shameful defeat from South African Kevin Lerena on Saturday.
Meroro, who disgracefully threw in the towel a few minutes into the fifth round meant for 12th round, as he could not contain the deadly punches and jabs of the South African opponent.
Local boxing promoter, Nestor Tobias said: “We are obviously very disappointed with Meroro’s behaviour and display of sportsmanship at this level, but we, however, thank him for having served the sport of boxing. We cannot forget the fact that as bad as his last display was, he was also once a world rated boxer who knocked out opponents at every given opportunity.”
“To this score, we would like to sincerely apologize to all boxing fans, because we know this is not the standard they expect from our boxers who have proven to be world class,’ said Tobias.
“We take full responsibility for this below standard performance, and will make the necessary adjustments,’ he added.
Tobias was, however, quick to point out that Meroro’s poor shape and display is in no way a reflection of other boxers in the camp. “We generally have a very high level of discipline, and the fitness level of our boxers are of high standard, but there will always be one or two exceptions which does not necessarily reflect our general standard,” he said.
“We can only give every boxer an opportunity to fight, but when they step in the ring it is up to them to make best use of the given opportunity,” he stressed.
Born in 1985, Meroro stepped down with a professional record of 34 fights, 28 wins and 6 losses, respectively.
Despite the loss, Tobias is upbeat about Namibian boxing. “We are now headed straight to Puerto Rico where Jafet “The Lion” Uutoni will face Angel Acosta for the Final World Title Eliminator.