KUCHING: Sarawak’s rising boxing prodigy, Gideon Riquelme Jonathan, delivered a spectacular performance at the 2025 World Boxing Championship (WBC), by securing a dominant first-round technical knockout (TKO) victory over Australian fighter Lucas Jhon Holmes.
The 22-year-old Iban boxer from Batu Kawa here needed just two minutes and 50 seconds to dismantle his opponent in the mddleweight (70kg) division at World Siam Stadium, Thailand, today.
Reflecting on his victory, Gideon expressed satisfaction with his performance.
“I’m really happy that I managed to knock him out in the first round.
“I’m very satisfied with how I executed the game plan,” he told the Sarawak Tribune when contacted today.
Gideon credited his coach, Stephen Onn Jenggieng, for the strategic approach that led to the quick stoppage.
“He told me to target the body first to keep Lucas focused on blocking his midsection.
“Once I had him guarding low, I went for the head – that’s how I got the knockout,” he revealed.
As for his next fight, the young Sarawakian hinted at another boxing showdown on the horizon.
“We heard there’s a competition in May, so we’ll probably focus on preparing for that,” he added.
However, Coach Stephen urged caution, highlighting the need to avoid complacency and continue striving for improvement.
“We got the win, but I cannot be easily satisfied. There’s always room for improvement.
“For as long as we are in this game, we have to keep challenging ourselves with tougher opponents until the belt is wrapped around his waist.
“The competition will only get harder as he climbs the ranks,”he said.
