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Langton Nyakwenda
Zimpapers Sports Hub
AFTER four years of toiling, unheralded boxer Bongani Makorova, has finally been given an opportunity to land his first international title.
The 27-year-old boxer, who was raised in Hippo Valley and belongs to Otto Boxing Stable, will become the latest international champion from Zimbabwe if he beats Musa Kananji of Malawi at the 7 Arts Theatre in Harare next Saturday.
At stake is the World Boxing Federation Bantamweight belt.
Makorova turned professional in 2021 and this will be his first international title fight.
He has a modest record of seven wins and five losses.
Makorova says he is both anxious and ambitious ahead of this fight.
“I am feeling grateful for this opportunity and it’s a great step in my career towards my goals,” Makorova told Zimpapers Sports Hub.
Makorova‘s fight will be the main bout of a loaded card that will also see former Africa Boxing Union Lightweight champion Aliyah Phiri bouncing back into the ring.
World Boxing Federation champions Tinashe Majoni and Hassan Milanzi are also fighting on the same night, although they will not put their belts on the line.
“I am feeling anxious about this fight because of its magnitude, but I promise to deliver and secure this belt for my country,” said Makorova.
“I have been preparing well for this fight and my coach is confident I will win,” added Makorova.
He is trained by Ali “Otto” Phiri, a veteran coach who has worked with several boxers including former World Boxing Council Silver welterweight champion Charles Manyuchi.
“We have been and we’re still preparing very hard,’’ said Phiri.
“We have studied our opponent and we have discovered his weaknesses.
“We are going to win this fight,’’ declared Phiri.
Dubbed the Rise of Champions Six, the boxing tournament which is set for August 30 has been organised by Otto Boxing Stable.
The spotlight will also fall on former ABU champion Phiri whose aggressive fighting style has charmed many local boxing supporters.
This will be his second fight after serving a one-year doping ban.
Arifonso Zvenyika Jr, son of former Commonwealth Flyweight champion Zvenyika, is also on the bout card.
Online Reporter