BY KARINA LAY
NEON Boxing Academy has continued its powerful run on the national amateur boxing scene, celebrating major championship success in Sydney while also delivering a clean sweep performance at the No Deal tournament.
The Redland Bay-based club produced standout results at the prestigious King & Queen of the Ring tournament, held from April 9-12, with two elite athletes crowned champions against top-tier opposition from across Australia and overseas.
Kipa “Tha Ripa” Keremete reinforced his reputation as one of the country’s most dangerous amateur boxers, claiming the 2026 King of the Ring title in the 75kg division – adding to his previous crown at 70kg.
He saved his best for the final, delivering a masterclass performance marked by elite ring IQ, sharp timing and impenetrable defence to secure a dominant victory.
Zahara “The Mad Cinderella” Lane matched the feat, claiming the Queen of the Ring title in the 65kg division with a composed and calculated campaign.
She handled a tough, forward-pressing southpaw in the semi-final with smart jab work and precise shot selection, before elevating again in the final.
Back on home soil, the club’s depth was on full display at the No Deal tournament, where fighters across all age groups delivered four wins and a standout exhibition bout.
At 65, Dave “Young Dave” Logan impressed in an exhibition against an opponent 21 years his junior.
Rising talent William “BXR Will” Turnbull, just 12 years old, continued his rapid development with a dominant unanimous decision victory.
Scott “Super Scotty” Myler backed up a recent bout against the same opponent with an improved performance, earning a well-deserved win that reflected his growth.
National champion Gene “The Machine” Keremete delivered one of the night’s most explosive moments, stopping his opponent within 30 seconds.
Luke “Mad Dog” Morrison capped the event in style, winning what judges described as fight of the night.
