KUCHING – Sarawak’s rising boxing star, Daeloniel “Kilat Boy” Mcdelon Bong, ended 2025 on a triumphant note after capturing the IBA Intercontinental Super Bantamweight title.
The 27-year-old fighter defeated Indian national champion Kuldeep Tarkar via Total Knockout (TKO) in the eighth round at the Warzone World Championship on 7 December. The victory marked a significant milestone in his career, fulfilling a goal he had pursued throughout the year.
Speaking to reporters upon his arrival at Kuching International Airport, Kilat Boy expressed pride in his achievement. “Since the beginning of the year we have been talking about IBA, and Alhamdulillah at the end of 2025 we have managed to win the title,” he said.
His success followed months of preparation, including four earlier bouts that helped elevate his ranking. Among these was his victory in the WBC Asia Continental title on 30 August, which strengthened his standing in the region.
He also competed in the Twins Championship 103 in Sri Aman, held just three weeks before the IBA fight, which boosted his confidence and readiness for the international stage.
Looking ahead, Kilat Boy revealed plans to establish his own academy or gym in 2026, aiming to nurture future talent while continuing his pursuit of world-class titles.
“We will also focus on the next bigger target, perhaps towards a world championship such as the World Championship or WBC Gold. Planning is being made towards that and during this break we will prepare the gym or academy,” he explained.
He intends to return to the ring after the Hari Raya celebration next year, with his management expected to announce the fight date. In the meantime, he will resume training at his original camp, focusing on recovery after an intense year that saw him fight five times.
The development of the ‘Kilat Boy’ Academy is expected to be unveiled early in 2026, signalling his commitment to both personal growth and community development in Sarawak’s sporting scene.
According to BoxRex rankings, Daeloniel is currently placed 150th in the world, eighth in Asia, and first in Malaysia in the Super Bantamweight category. His latest victory is expected to improve his global standing once the rankings are updated.
Kilat Boy’s achievement not only cements his reputation as Malaysia’s top Super Bantamweight boxer but also positions him as a strong contender for future world championship opportunities.
