Ali Nuumbembe has returned to Namibia to resume his role as a captain in the Namibian Defence Force.  The popular Namibian was based in Glossop, Derbyshire, for five years - during which time he became the Commonwealth Welterweight Champion.

Ali and Chad Parker sat down and talked about progress and both agreed that this would be the best move for Ali.

Chad said: "It was a tough decision to make,  but from the very beginning in 2002 all I have wanted is the best for Ali and on this occasion we both feel it would be better for him to go home and continue with his military career. Ali and I have thoroughly enjoyed the last 6 years and Ali has achieved some amazing things.

"Obviously the highlight for me was when Ali won the Commonwealth welterweight title on that cold Scottish night.  However,  Ali feels that his best achievement is meeting and making all the new friends while he has been here.

"Ali would like to thank his sponsors, D J Pape, Chaintec,  Aston Ventures and Bodycheck for their support as without the help of these companies it would not have been possible.

"And he would also like to thank everyone else who has supported and befriended him during his stay."

When the team's kit was lost on the way to Manchester, boxing enthusiast Richard Parker donated new kit so they could take part in the games - where Ali scooped a bronze medal.

Ali lived in Richard's pub, the Beehive in Glossop, Derbyshire for four years before moving to a place of his own in the town. He trained under professional coach Bob Shannon and renowned boxing manager Steve Wood.

Ali had an outstanding amateur record. With 155 fights he had 144 wins, 11 defeats and 63 knockouts spanning a 10 year period.

Since turning professional in 2002 he has had 20 wins (7 KOs),  3 defeats and 1 draw.

Ali won the Commonwealth welterweight title from Kevin Anderson at the Fife Ice Centre in Kirkcaldy on February 16, 2007 but lost it to Mancunian southpaw Craig Watson in Wigan on December 8, 2007.

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