Nigerian lined up for Lerena

American-based Nigerian Olanrewaju Durodola will face SA’s Kevin Lerena (above) at Emperors Palace on August 12 after Russian Max Maslov pulled out of the IBO cruiserweight title bout against Lerena at the last minute.

Golden Gloves promoter Rodney Berman has now drafted in big-punching Durodola, who has a 25-4 record, which includes 23 knockouts. However, the promoter is sceptical regarding the Russian’s excuse for withdrawal.

“The Russians claimed their boxer had an old injury flare up, but I have my doubts,” said Berman. “At no point did they suggest anything was the matter until the very last. I’m very disappointed.”

It resulted in a mad scramble to secure a worthwhile – and fit – opponent. Durodola fits the bill, having scored a second-round knockout over Karama Nyilawila in Ghana at the weekend.

Durodola, 36, will be familiar to South Africans, having boxed Thabiso Mchunu, a stablemate of Lerena, in Atlantic City in New Jersey three years ago.

Two years ago he was responsible for one of the biggest upsets in the cruiserweight division in recent years, when he crushed big-hitting Dmitry Kudryashov in Russia inside two rounds. The pair recently engaged in a brutal rematch with Kudryashov avenging the defeat.

“These things are never ideal, but I’m satisfied we attracted a top-class opponent who will present a formidable challenge,” said Berman. “Durodola is a wily campaigner and will be well prepared.”