Despite the hullabaloo that surrounded his clearance, Malawian boxer Mussa Ajbu is reportedly in fine spirits ahead of the World Boxing Organisation (WBO) Africa cruiserweight fight against Nigerian Olanrewaju Durodola tonight.
The 12-round contest will take place at Bukom Boxing Arena in Accra, Ghana.
Ajibu, who ditched Malawi Professional Boxing Control Board for Malawi Boxing Association, was at the centre of controversy amid claims that the board tried to block the fight.
The Malawian, 31, has 27 wins including 23 knockouts, seven defeats and five draws.
In his last six fights, Ajibu has won, drawn and lost twice each whereas Nigerian Olanrewaju, 36, has won 24 fights including 22 knockouts and lost thrice.
Olanrewaju has won five and lost once in his last six fights.
Ajibu’s Zimbabwean trainer, Clyde Musonda, of Delta Force Boxing Academy said he had counselled the boxer to concentrate on the fight.
“Yes, what I can say now is that we arrived well and the promoter is taking good care of us. We cannot complain. I have managed to cool down the boxer and also took away his [mobile] phone to enable him focus on the fight.”
“I also told him that he is representing Malawi and nobody is going to stop the fight as it is already approved and sanctioned by World Boxing Organisation,” Musonda said.
No Pain No Gain Boxing Promotions Managing Director, Craig Rousseau, who sacrificed his ticket to allow Musonda to be at Ajibu’s corner, advised the Malawian boxer to give out his best.
“My only advice is that he [Ajibu] should go really hard to take it because he is up against a strong and good boxer.”
“The Nigerian champion is based in the US so he [Ajibu] has to go with 100 percent confidence and go for the kill. He cannot go in with kid’s gloves. West African boxers are very strong. The Nigerian is definitely not coming to spar,” he said
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