For the first time in his career, Namibia’s Mateus ‘The Beast’ Heita is stepping into the global spotlight on enemy soil. 

On 27 July, he will face America’s hometown hero Bruce ‘Shu Shu’ Carrington at the iconic Madison Square Garden in New York, battling for the vacant World Boxing Council (WBC) Interim World Featherweight Title.

This high-stakes bout will serve as the co-main event on the ‘Zayas versus Garcia’ card. 

For Heita, it is more than just another fight. 

It is a defining moment in his career.

“I’ve proven to the world that I am a world-class boxer. Facing the best has always been my ambition because I believe I am destined for greatness. There’s nothing special about Carrington. He’s just another challenge I will overcome,” said a confident Heita.

His last outing was on 12 April when he dominated Abdulaziz Kunert over 12 rounds, winning by unanimous decision. 

Now, Heita is preparing for a tougher test, a battle against an undefeated American star in front of a home crowd in one of boxing’s most historic arenas.

“I’ve put in the work. I am carrying the Namibian nation on my shoulders. I’m not just a contender but a world champion in the making. This takes sacrifice. You don’t become a champion overnight. I’ve earned this shot. To the Namibian nation, I am ready. I’ll bring the title home,” he stated.

Carrington, meanwhile, is relishing the chance to defend his turf.

“It’s always a thrill to fight in my city. I can’t wait to bring the ‘Shu Shu Show’ back to The Theatre at Madison Square Garden. The featherweight division is full of champions who have refused my challenge, so I credit Heita for accepting. That said, I will take out my frustration on him and continue putting the division on notice,” he remarked.

Carrington’s last fight was on 29 March in Las Vegas, where he dismantled José Enrique Durantes Vivas with a third-round technical knockout.

 He cemented his reputation as one of America’s hottest rising stars. 

He enters this fight with a perfect record of 15-0, including nine knockouts.

 He currently holds the number one spot in both the World Boxing Organisation (WBO) and WBC rankings.

Heita, the WBO Africa featherweight champion, also boasts an unbeaten record – 14 wins with nine knockouts.

He is ranked 11th by the WBC and 14th by the WBO. 

But now, he faces his toughest assignment yet – defeating the top contender in his own backyard.

-lmupetami@nepc.com.na