The Namibia Professional Boxing and Wrestling Control Board (NPBWCB) has thanked South African ring official Deon Dwarte for availing himself when he was asked to conduct a refresher training workshop for Namibian ring officials in Windhoek on Saturday.
Dwarte, who is one of the world’s top judges and referees, conducted the refresher training workshop at the Palm Tree Hotel in Windhoek.
“On behalf of the entire team at the Namibia Professional Boxing and Wrestling Control Board, I wanted to convey our sincere gratitude for your exceptional facilitation at our recent boxing technical officials workshop,” NPBWCB chairperson Magreth Mengo wrote to Dwarte.
“Your expertise and dedication as an illustrious boxing technical officer truly shone throughout the event and we are immensely thankful for your invaluable contributions. Your guidance and insights have undoubtedly elevated the skills and knowledge of our technical officials, leaving a lasting impact on our team.
“Your commitment to the sport of boxing and your willingness to share your knowledge with others are truly commendable. We couldn’t have asked for a more capable and passionate facilitator for this workshop. Your presence made a significant difference and we are grateful for the opportunity to learn from the very best.”
The 54-year-old Dwarte, who is a deputy director in the Western Cape Department of Community Safety, has been a boxing judge and referee for 24 years.
He has officiated in 188 championship bouts including 58 world title fights and is only the second South African ring official to have refereed a world heavyweight bout. He was the referee when Briton Anthony Joshua defeated Kubrat Pulev from Bulgaria at the Wembley Arena in London in December 2020.
Stan Christodoulou was the first South African ring official to referee a world heavyweight title fight when Mike Weaver beat James Tillis in October 1981.
