Experience may not help Seroka defeat Ndongeni

EAST London fans are looking forward to the coming IBO lightweight showdown between bright prospect Xolisani “Nomeva” Ndongeni and veteran Jasper “Jazzman” Seroka.

Promoter Andile Sidinile announced two weeks ago that Ndongeni was due to oppose Pablo Sanchez — a Mexican journeyman who has not won anything significant since 2006.

The idea was that Sanchez posed no threat to Ndongeni.

But the change of opponent by Sidinile to Seroka for the vacant IBO belt at East London’s Selborne Park Tennis Stadium has brought chills down some fans’ spines.

While it is not a mismatch, the fear is that the 34-year-old Seroka — the South African lightweight holder — could overwhelm the WBA Pan African champion with experience. But this could be a fallacy as Ndongeni, the former SA and WBF International junior lightweight holder, is equally competent.

His 19 wins, from as many bouts, mean he is relatively inexperienced, compared to Seroka’s 24 wins from 30 bouts. But Ndongeni has shown great potential, defeating top names including former IBF champion Mzonke Fana.

Ndongeni will be involved in his sixth 12 rounder, while for Seroka it will be his 12th. At the same time, Seroka could use his big-fight temperament to his favour and all this is a perfect recipe for an enthralling clash.

Ndongeni will enjoy huge local support even though he is trained in Gauteng by Colin Nathan.

Limpopo’s Seroka, who is based in Gauteng under Manny Fernandes, returns to the province, where he beat local boxer Xolani Mcotheli for the vacant South African title last year.

That is also where Seroka registered his first defence after outpointing Koos Sibiya in August.

Nathan said: “Jasper is the puzzle that Ndongeni must figure out.

“I expect a tough fight, but there is no doubt that Ndongeni’s hands will be raised in victory.”

The main attraction of the tournament on November 28, dubbed Fistic Festive, is the WBA International featherweight championship between holder Simpiwe “V12” Vetyeka and Colombian Rodolfo Puente.

“Vetyeka is the Picasso of local boxing. His bout will also be an elimination fight for the WBA belt,” said Sidinile, who also said the tournament was dedicated to boxing fans who supported his Sijuta Boxing Promotion during the year.