World Boxing Association (WBA) Pan-Africa welterweight champion Abed Shikongo said he is fired up and ready to make history when he faces Kazakhstan’s Ruslan Madiyev next month for the World Boxing Association Asia welterweight title.

The much-anticipated bout is scheduled for 4 October at the World Siam Stadium in Bangkapi, Bangkok, Thailand. 

It will feature two continental champions squaring off in a highly explosive bout, where both will hope to extend their dominance beyond their respective regions.

Shikongo, from the MTC Salute Boxing Academy, carries a professional record of 12 fights, 11 wins and one draw, said this opportunity is a dream come true.

“I am overly excited. This is something I have been waiting for a long time. Thanks to my team for working hard to make sure this fight happens. It is a huge opportunity. I will hold it with both hands,” he said.

His opponent, Madiyev, brings vast experience with a record of 20 fights, 17 wins, two losses and one draw. 

However, Shikongo remains unfazed.

“I would not say I know him much, but once this fight was confirmed, my team and I went back and studied his old videos. Honestly, I am not impressed with his skill set or how he conducts himself in the ring. To me, he looks weak. He doesn’t stand a chance against me in this bout,” Shikongo said confidently.

The 36-year-old Namibian boxer last stepped into the ring in July this year when he defeated Malawi’s Byson Gwayani with a technical knockout at the Windhoek Country Club and Casino. 

He said he has been training non-stop since then, knowing a big fight was just around the corner.

“As a boxer, your place to be is the gym. That’s where I have been these past few months, making sure I stay sharp and in shape. I knew a big fight was coming. It was only a matter of time. So, preparation-wise, I am ready. I live in the gym, I eat in the gym, and I breathe the gym,” he said.

-mkambukwe@nepc.com.na