IBF title now in Nkosi’s cross-hairs
Third defence confirms his talent
The WBA Pan African title may not be that big a boxing belt to hold but three successful defences should serve as a motivator to other sanctioning bodies to recognise the talent of lightweight champion Ayanda “Greyhound” Nkosi. Nkosi produced a five-star performance against the tough Steven Bagwasi in front of a big crowd at Sibaya Casino in Durban on Friday night. Nkosi, whose corner was manned by Patrick Malinga and Thulani Buthelezi from the JD Malinga Boxing Gym, said he was optimistic that respected sanctioning bodies will take note of his abilities and give him a ranking. The lanky fighter showed his superiority over his revered foe from Botswana and has his eyes fixed firmly on the IBF title, which is currently vacant.
“My intention is to fight for the IBF [belt],” said Nkosi, who was so dominant on Friday in that he chalked up a lopsided points win.
In fact, Bagwasi, who ran out of steam and ideas after round eight, only survived a knockdown because of the bell.
The scores were 117-110, 119109 and 118-109, confirming Nkosi’s 11th win from 12 fights. Bagwasi tasted defeat after five straight wins.
The clean-fought bout formed part of Fox Africa Sports’ seven-bout card. “I treated the fight as a springboard to a brighter future although I want the IBF title,” said the 24-year-old Nkosi.
“I am hoping that other bodies will finally take note of what I can do.”
Nkosi is rated No 1 in South Africa and a chance to challenge for the title that is held by Thompson Mokwana will also come in handy for Nkosi, whose first boxing title was the Gauteng belt he won last year.
The boxer’s manager, Vusi Malinga said: “Stan Christodoulou [WBA representative in Africa] promised us the WBA International title after the fight on Friday.” In the main bout, Akani “Prime” Phuzi also retained his WBA Pan African cruiserweight belt with a unanimous points decision after outclassing Nigerian Afinni Abiodun. But the fight deteriorated to a sparring session as Abiodun was not the man to test the champion. Abiodun could have gone on for another 12 rounds but the scores would have been the same because he had nothing to offer. The scores were 120-108, 119109 and 120-108.
Phuzi, who is trained by Alan Toweel jnr, bettered his record to seven wins from seven fights. Featherweight (four rounds): Moabi Ngaka (Botswana) beat Rirothe Randima (SA) on points. Welterweight (four rounds): Kagiso Bagwasi (Botswana) beat Kiabusi Mafisi (Congo) on points Lightweight (six rounds): Kutlwano Ogaketse (Botswana) beat Paul Mangxilana (SA) on points Junior middleweight: John Bopape (SA) beat Anthony Jarman (Namibia) TKO 8 Heavyweight: Wilhelm Nebe (SA) beat Gilson Jeputers (Malawi) TKO 1.
I treated the fight as a springboard