Revered South Africa-based Malawian boxer Isaac ‘Golden Boy’ Chilemba has suffered an injury setback in the countdown to his world title dream home fight against Nigerian Mathew ‘Wiseman’ Obinna.
He is scheduled to host the undefeated West African in a Universal Boxing Organisation light heavyweight bout on September 30 at Bingu National Stadium in Lilongwe.
In an interview yesterday, the former world champion said he suffered a rib injury during a sparring session and is hoping to recover in time.
He said: “The fight is on, but it is just difficult for me because I cracked my rib during training. So, I have been in and out of doctor’s surgery.
“Now, I am waiting for an appointment for a scan. Hopefully, it will be done within the week and I remain optimistic. There are 19 or 20 days left and we will see what comes up.
“But whether I am fighting or not, the event goes on because there are a couple of other fights as well.”
The 36-year-old boxer has never fought on home soil and his prospective fight has created excitement among some home fans.
Apart from the main bout, Chilemba has lined up 10 other supporting bouts under his Chilemba Boxing Promotions stable, including two international title fights.
Among others, Dennis Mwale of Malawi will face Mwinyi Mzengela from Tanzania in a Universal Boxing Council international welterweight title fight while Malawian female boxer Aneesha Basheel will take on Chieza Hamakoma from Zimbabwe in the African Boxing Union lightweight championship.
Chilemba also said he is happy with the preparations for the event.
“My wife is coordinating things that side and I would say so far so good,” he said.
Malawi Professional Boxing Control Body president Lonzoe ‘Defector’ Zimba yesterday said he was still waiting for the promoter’s confirmation on the fights.
“That’s when I will be able to comment,” he said.
Chilemba’s record stands at 27 wins, including 11 knockouts, nine losses, including one knockout and three draws.
He first won the world title in June 2010 against the then undefeated Australian Michael Bolling in an International Boxing Organisation super middleweight title bout. He retained the title with a gruelling draw against South African Thomas Oosthuizen later the same year despite being the underdog going into the fight.
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