PAPUA New Guinea’s two-time Olympic boxer John Ume is seeking sponsorship and support as he begins his journey into professional boxing.

After his appearance at the 2024 Paris Olympics in France, Ume returned home and made the decision to switch from amateur to professional.

He had his first pro-debut during the 2024 Oceania Fight Promotions Fight night in Port Moresby and continued, the recent was in Brisbane Australia just in April.

Ume was scheduled for a showdown for the Queensland Welterweight title in June. However, that was canceled when he parted ways with his manager at the time, Glen Azar.

The reasons for the split are personal but Ume said the experience with Glen and his team was a stepping stone and a learning curve for him.

“I have learnt that Amateur boxing is totally different from Professional boxing. In Professional boxing, it’s like a business and it’s a career where you get paid for fighting.”

“You just have to get better at each level, and you need to have the right team behind you too,” he said.

Ume’s goal in professional boxing is to be the first PNG boxer to win a World Boxing Council (WBC) title in this next phase of his journey.

“I am hoping to have a better management team that can get me to the higher ranks. Currently I am looking for sponsors or partners to work with my team and I,” Ume added.

He has been approached by some promoters and boxing clubs in Australia and is weighing out the offers before committing fully.

“I am weighing out all the pros and cons to make a final decision that may suit my goals.”

Ume is also encouraging other young PNG Boxers venturing into bro boxing to fully understand the industry and its demands.

 “Get to know the processes and procedures involved, and the people that approach you to be your promoters and managers. It’s a different game so educate yourself before engaging in any deals,” Ume said.

Being a two-time Olympian, Pacific Games gold medalist and Commonwealth Games representative for PNG, Ume is no stranger to hard work, discipline and dedication to his craft. Originally from Kairuku, Central Provine, The hard-hitting boxer is known for his solid punches and knockout power that has sent many to the canvas. He aims to get more fights under his belt and build a respectable profile for a title shot.

Meanwhile Ume has acknowledged PNG Boxing Union for his upbringing in the sport, the PNG Sports Foundation and PNG Olympic Committee for the national opportunities.

He further extended his gratitude for national coach Mark Keto who has been a great mentor in his journey, the PNG boxing community, friends, families and fans in Queensland and other parts of Australia for their support and well wishes.

Ume also acknowledges his partner, Audrey McRubin’s who has been his biggest supporter and companion in this journey.

With a good team, great support, and strong faith, Ume has no doubt that he will achieve his goal of being a WBC champion soon.

Any promoters or sponsors who wish to partner with John Ume can contact him on; Phone: +675 83325081 (PNG)/ +61484727483 (Aus), E-mail: johnumeoly@gmail.com or his Facebook page: @John Ume -Athlete