Online Reporter
Langton Nyakwenda-Zimpapers Sports Hub
THERE is an intrinsic force that is driving former Africa Boxing Union Lightweight champion, Aliyah “Lanso” Phiri, as he prepares for his next bout.
The 25-year-old Phiri will take on Jonathan Lotango of the Democratic Republic of Congo over eight rounds in a non-title fight set for 7 Arts Theatre in Avondale on August 30.
This will be Phiri’s second fight after serving a doping ban.
Phiri was stripped of his ABU belt last November after he was found guilty of using Frosinone, a prohibited substance.
This was discovered from tests conducted on the boxer in March last year, soon after a successful title defence against Saidi Mkola of Tanzania in Harare.
The ban expired in March, before Phiri defeated Mbaraka Mtangembuda in a non-title fight at 7 Arts Theatre.
He is now preparing to face Lotango in a fight that could pave way for a title challenge in December.
“I am still around and I am still on top of my game,” Phiri told Zimpapers Sports Hub yesterday.
The boxer knows he disappointed his legion of fans when he failed that doping test last year.
“That ban was a learning process, what I promise is I won’t disappoint my fans again,” said Phiri.
His handlers claim that he used the substance ignorantly.
Before the ban, Phiri had become one of the most talked about boxers in the land.
He had also been lined up for a World Boxing Council bout.
“I never stopped training, so I am in great shape.
“The rust is off now and I am ready to shine again.
“I want to be an example of resilience and perseverance,” said Phiri.
Dubbed the Rise of Champions Six, the boxing tournament set for August 30 has been organised by Otto Boxing Stable.
World Boxing Federation champions Tinashe “Jones” Majoni and Hassan Milanzi will also take to the ring on the night.
But the spotlight will once again fall on Phiri whose aggressive fighting style has charmed many local boxing supporters.
“The boy looks good . . . he is ready for Lotango.
“After this fight he will certainly go for an international title bout in December,” said Ali “Otto” Phiri, the boxer’s trainer and manager.
“However, we are treating Lotango with respect because he is a good boxer.
“Fans should expect fireworks in this bout,” added Ali Phiri, who is also Aliyah’s elder brother.
Lotango is a 26-year-old boxer from DRC with a 4-1-0 record.
