Palace coup beckons for fiery Mbenge
THULANI Mbenge’s world title horizons have suddenly widened with the withdrawal of Namibian Bethuel Ushona.
Now the hard-hitting Mdantsane boxer has a bigger fish to fry in the form of dangerous Argentinean Diego Chavez for the June 23 clash at Emperors Palace. Not only has the fight become bigger but it has thrust Mbenge into the welterweight elite league where Chavez has been a major player.
“To be honest Mbenge is getting the opportunity of a lifetime here against this guy,” said fight promoter Rodney Berman of Golden Gloves Promotions.
Indeed, facing a boxer with a career as illustrious as Chavez should shoot Mbenge straight into the big league in the event of a win.
Chavez is remembered for his epic battles against the likes of Tim Bradley when their 2014 ended in a draw.
His three losses in 30 bouts were at the hands of reigning and unbeaten WBA welterweight champion Keith Thurman, well-known Brendon Rios through a disqualification and once-beaten Jamal James in his last bout in December.
There is no question that the Argentinean will be a major step up in class for the still developing Mbenge.
The hard puncher from Eastern Cape has fought just 13 times but none in his record come close to the danger and experience posed by Chavez.
A win will not only earn Mbenge an IBO title, it will vault him into lofty ratings with other world bodies. “This is what is called hitting two birds with one stone,” said Berman
While some may fear Berman has thrown his charge to the wolves, a win will vindicate Berman’s call that the boxer is destined for stardom.
This will be sweetened by the IBO title Mbenge will own, which should open many doors.
Mbenge will be among world champions in the talent-rich division like Thurman (WBA), Erroll Spence (IBF), Danny Garcia and Shawn Porter.
Besides Mbenge’s baptism the card will feature potentially thrilling bouts like the return of world title challenger Thabiso Mchunu in a ten-round cruiserweight encounter with Ukrainian Ricards Bolotniks.
Berman’s spring chickens Rowan Campbell, DJ Kriel, Wayne Groth and Siyabonga Sonjica will also see action. —