Dili, April 9, 2025 (Média Democracia) – A Timorese boxer from Club Maubere Puru represented Timor-Leste at the Versus Brawl Bali event in Denpasar, Indonesia, on April 5, 2025. In the match, the Timorese boxer defeated his Indonesian opponent, claiming victory and bringing pride to Timor-Leste.
According to Coach Sebastião da Silva, the boxer from Club Maubere Puru departed Timor-Leste on April 1, 2025 to participate in the event in Denpasar, Bali. Beyond simply competing, he emerged as the winner of the event, helping to raise Timor-Leste’s profile on the international stage.
“In the first round, the Indonesian boxer managed to knock down our boxer, Raimundu. But he remained confident despite the setback, especially as this was Club Maubere Puru’s first time competing in such an international event and their preparation was still limited,” said Coach Sebastião da Silva.
He continued, the team changed strategy in the second round which caused the Timor-Leste boxer to successfully defeat the Indonesian boxer by KO and was declared the winner of the match.
“The event, titled Amprof (Amateur-Professional), was held in Denpasar, Bali. Club Maubere Puru received an invitation letter from the host team in Bali to participate in this event. We are very grateful to have come out as winners,” he said.
Looking ahead, he shared that the team will prepare even more intensively so that the boxer can qualify for major championships such as the Asia Games. Participating in smaller events like this one is vital to developing both the mentality and physical capability of the boxer in order to be professionally ready and not miss opportunities on the bigger stage.
Meanwhile, victorious boxer Elisio Raimundo Gaio expressed his deep gratitude and joy, thanking the people of Timor-Leste, his family, and especially Club Maubere Puru for their support in allowing him to compete in the Bali event and claim victory.
“I feel extremely proud of my homeland, Timor-Leste, especially my family whose prayers have always been with me. I also want to thank my club, Maubere Puru, for entrusting me with the opportunity to compete in Bali and for this successful outcome,” said Elisio Raimundo Gaio.
He added that this event motivates him to better prepare himself for future competitions abroad and to represent Timor-Leste on the international stage.
His message to fellow boxers: always prepare well, take care of yourself, and stay away from crime, discipline is key. He encourages other youth to pursue sports, especially boxing, as a way to bring pride to Timor-Leste.
He further explained that Club Maubere Puru received financial support from the government through the Ministry of Youth, Sports, Arts and Culture (MJDAC), amounting to $3,000 USD. In addition, he expressed gratitude to all donors who supported them, and remains confident that together, they will continue to bring Timor-Leste to the world stage.
Reporter : Nelfiano
Photo : Nelfiano
Editor : Jp. Costa