Malawian-born Byson Gwayani has sent a stern warning to his opponent Abed Shikongo ahead of their highly anticipated welterweight clash, promising to end the fight in its early stages.

The two pugilists will headline the MTC Salute Boxing Bonanza, which is set to take place at the Windhoek Country Club and Resort on Saturday night. The bonanza will feature a total of 10 bouts across various weight divisions.

Additionally, the fight will be supported, Fillemon Nghutenanye who will trade leather with South Africa’s Sihle Jelwana in an eight-round international bantamweight contest, while former ABU champion Natty Kakololo will make a comeback to the ring as he is set to square off against David Shinuna in an eight-round lightweight bout.

Speaking during the official weigh-in at the Namibia Industrial Development Agency (NIDA) in the capital, the Gwayani, who boasts a record of 28 fights, 16 wins and 12 loses and now resides in Johannesburg, South Africa, expressed confidence ahead of the fight, saying it will be an easier bout for him.

“This will be one of the easiest fights I’ve had. I’ve watched his videos, and frankly, I’m not impressed. It’s going to be light work for me and my team. I’ll take him down in the first round, despite him being taller than me. I’m walking out victorious on Saturday,” Gwayani said. In response, the unbeaten Shikongo, who holds an impressive record of 11 fights, 10 wins and one draw, confidently dismissed Gwayani’s threats. “It’s going to be a short night for me and my team. The guy I’m facing is a weaker opponent. I believe he’s here to show face, not to fight. He can’t put up a good fight against me,” Shikongo responded.

Meanwhile, MTC Salute Boxing Club chairman Kiriata Kamanya called on the public to fill the venue and support the country’s boxers. “We’re grateful to our main sponsor, MTC, for their continued support. Without them, events like this wouldn’t be possible. I’m urging fans to come in large numbers to rally behind our local fighters. By supporting this event, you’re supporting the growth of Namibian boxing,” Kamanya said

In other bouts on Saturday night, Immanuel Josef will square off against South Africa’s Theo Nxayiphi in a flyweight bout scheduled for eight rounds, while Salom Petrus will battle it out with Merven Nguno in the junior welterweight division.

Kareb Shitana will come up against seasoned Anthony Jarmann in a cruiserweight fight over 10 rounds, meanwhile, Tomas Shifiona will face Lazarus Namalanga in a catchweight bout set for eight rounds. Bernhard Bernhard will exchange leather with Josef Ampweya in a welterweight six-rounder. Gabriel Jemba will lock horns with Jonathan Kasheeta in a bantamweight contest over six rounds. – mkambukwe@nepc.com.na