Super welterweight champion, Chikondi Makawa and challenger Kudakwache Banda have engaged in a verbal tirade ahead of their 12-round title contest set for Sunday at M1 Centre Point in Lilongwe.
Banda, a southpaw and younger brother to Philemon Nkhakamila Banda, set the tone when he questioned Makawa’s credentials as the category’s reigning champion.
“I am surprised that he is our champion in this category. It is pathetic that we allow every Jim and Jack to vie for a title fight. Just imagine during our amateurs days, I defeated him on points and in a professional non-title fight, I knocked him out in the fifth round,” boasted the 22-year-old boxer.
Kudakwache is undefeated in 10 fights since turning professional last year.
He has also been tipped as the next big thing to have happened in Malawi boxing after South Africa-based light heavyweight boxer, Isaac Chilemba.
“I eat, drink and sleep boxing. I will teach him a lesson that to be a champion, you don’t need short-cuts. I am not surprised that he is a punching bag whenever he takes on international opponents,” added Kudakwache, whose record includes eight knock-outs.
However, Makawa in his first title defence, has threatened to spoil Kudakwache’s unbeaten record.
“Let us forget about the amateur thing. As for the defeat in the professional ranks, I was shocked that my corner-man threw in a towel when I was not under pressure. He will face a real test. I will dent his record and panel-beat his face,” said the 24-year-old boxer.
Makawa has fought 10 times, winning six, losing thrice and drawing once.
The fight has also split promoters, No Pain No Gain Boxing Promotions and New Dawn Boxing Promotions, who usually work together.
No Pain No Gain Boxing Promotions Managing Director, Craig Rousseau, was convinced that his boxer, Makawa, will defend the belt.
New Dawn Boxing Promotions Managing Director, Mike Chimaliza, said time was ripe for Kudakwache to become a local champion.
Meanwhile, Don King Boxing Promotions Managing Director, Antonio Dzilimbire, said all was set for the fight.
“As for the purse, I can’t disclose the actual amount because we were advised against doing so. However, the amount is in the region of K250,000 for each boxer. We will also have good supporting fights,” he said.
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