Road to Contender is a premier boxing showcase delivering an action-packed evening of sanctioned amateur, semi-professional, and elite professional boxing bouts — under the governance of internationally recognised bodies including the World Boxing Council (WBC) and the International Boxing Federation (IBF).

The headline attraction will see Victor Nagbe, the reigning WBC Asia Super Welterweight Champion, defend his title for the third time in front of a home crowd.

Victor has built a reputation for his electrifying style and inspirational rise in the sport.

Also competing is Ibrahim Balla, an Australian Olympian, Commonwealth Games representative, and current IBF Australasian Lightweight Champion, who will defend his title in a highly anticipated matchup.

Shanell Dargan, the current WBC Australasian and ANBF Australian Super Bantamweight Champion, will also take to the ring to contest the vacant WBC Asia Super Bantamweight Title — a pivotal step in her pursuit of a world title.

Additional professional bouts include:

• Sam Dwyer – Contesting the Bob Rose Cup Title, honouring AFL icon Bob Rose • Dylan Birdo – Undefeated professional (3–0, 2 KOs) and rising star from Victoria • Omar Elabdallah – Undefeated prospect (2–0, 2 KOs) showcasing elite potential

• Michael Gambold – Decorated national amateur champion turned professional With thousands of guests expected, Road to Contender will contribute vibrancy and economic activity to Ballarat’s tourism and events calendar.

Attendees will enjoy VIP banquet-style or general admission seating, high-quality audiovisual production, and live entertainment — all set within a vibrant stadium atmosphere.

This event is more than a boxing showcase — it is a celebration of sporting excellence, community engagement, and regional pride, cementing Ballarat’s place on the map as a host of major sporting events in Australia.