Ellen Simwaka secures Commonwealth title bout

South Africa-based Malawian female boxer Ellen ‘The Tigress’ Simwaka has secured a Commonwealth bantamweight title bout against Scottish opponent Kristen Fraser.

The 10-round bout is slated for November 24 in England. The title is currently vacant.

Simwaka, who is the reigning international bantamweight champion, yesterday said she has already signed the contract and has intensified her preparations for the bout.

“The preparations are intense and I have stepped up my preparations by training three times a day. My diet is also on point,” she said from Johannesburg.

The 22-year-old boxer said her managers, Stephen Castle and Rodger Romeo Kumwenda, are working tirelessly to ensure that she is in shape for the title bout.

Simwaka, whose record stands at seven wins (five knockouts), four losses (one KO) and two draws, is set to depart for the United Kingdom  on November 18.

The bout has attracted coverage from international media organisations such as the BBC and Sky Sports.

Organisers of the fight said they will ensure that the two boxers’ blood tests and brain scans are done in good time.

BBC said the Aberdeen-based Fraser will be the first Scottish female boxer to compete for the Commonwealth bantamweight title.

Frazer is quoted as having said: “It’s great to be at the forefront—the one opening up doors for others that will come behind you.

“I think it’s really important to set a standard and to be the person that in 10 years girls and young women will look at and say they want to do better than.”

The 30-year-old started boxing when she was 17, and is currently ranked eighth in Europe at super bantamweight.

“To be boxing for a Commonwealth title is something I’m really excited for  it’s a big step, but it’s one I’m confident I can take,” said Fraser, who is training twice a day in preparation for Simwaka.

She has won all her five fights (including one KO), according to boxrec.com.