Chilemba to face Russian opponent

Celebrated South Africa-based Malawian boxer Isaac ‘Golden Boy’ Chilemba says he is returning to the ring, almost two and half months after announcing his retirement on health grounds.

 The former super middleweight world champion announced his retirement in February this year, citing a broken rib and poor eyesight as the main reasons.

 But in an interview yesterday, Chilemba said he has changed his mind and will face Russian Alexei Papin in an eight-round cruiserweight bout in Moscow on May 24.

Said the 37-year-old: “I got the offer from Russia last week, so I started training to see how my body will respond and it all looks good.

“I took the offer just to see if I still have it and if I can also do a few more fights after the upcoming one.”

 On how the decision will affect his injury, Chilemba said: “I am good, fitness is kicking in. The injuries haven’t given me any problems yet and I hope to remain like this till the fight.”

The boxer, who boasts 27 wins, nine losses and three draws, said he does not regret his U-turn.

“In life you never say never… It’s not that easy to walk away from something that you have done all your life,” he said.

 On his part, Malawi Professional Boxing Control Board president Lonzoe ‘Defector’ Zimba said in an interview yesterday that they have welcomed Chilemba back in the fold.

He said: “He still has the strength to stand the heat, but he will have to push harder. That said, my advice is that if there are some areas that he needs to correct, then this is the time.

“Otherwise, we wish him well, he is our son and we are ready to give him all the support.”

Papin boasts 16 wins, including 15 knockouts and two losses.