Funeka must either swim or sink
‘Rush Hour’ faces unknown Samuel Vargas in Canada
Washed-up boxing veteran Ali “Rush Hour” Funeka must either swim or sink in what could be his swan song against unknown Canada-based Columbian Samuel Vargas in Canada on Saturday night.
Even his promoter Ayanda Matiti made it clear yesterday that the boxing match on Saturday could be his charge’s last.
“I believe this is his last year as a licensee,” said Matiti.
“It will all depend which Funeka comes out. If it is the one that fought Viskhan Murzabekov in Russia last year, then he will win.”
The 39-year-old former IBO champion – who has been a professional boxer since 1995 – last fought in December when he was stopped in five rounds by Australian Jeff Horn.
That was his sixth loss against 39 wins, 31 knockouts and three draws.
Funeka still packs power in his right hand, but his chin has become soft. His legs can no longer carry him, especially when he is under pressure.
Vargas, 28, is the WBA North American Boxing Association welterweight champion. He has fought and lost to top names including US stars Errol Spence Jr and Danny Garcia – who stopped him dead in his tracks within distances.
Vargas has 27 wins, 14 KOs, against three losses and a draw.
Funeka has been involved in high-profile wars, but the truth though is that he should have retired in December after blowing the golden opportunity to face Manny Pacquiao for the WBO belt.
That was after Funeka was stopped by Horn, who went on to dethrone Pacquiao last month.
Funeka has already jetted off to Canada with trainer Dudu Bungu and promoter Sibongile Matiti, whose brother Ayanda Matiti guides the boxer.