By Sthembiso Nkabinde
South Africa’s only reigning world champion, Sivenathi “The Special One” Nontshinga, has promised to bring nothing but pain to his challenger Regie Suganob in their IBF junior flyweight bout.
The fresh-faced pugilist from East London in the Eastern Cape will put his coveted title on the line against the tricky Suganob from the Philippines at the International Convention Centre today.
Nontshinga will be making his first defence of the title he won last year in Mexico when he produced a stunning performance to score a split-decision victory over Hector Flores.
That fight was a classic with the 24-year-old fighter even scooping an IBF award for Fight of the Year as a result of his showing.
Nontshinga now turns his attention to mandatory challenger Suganob (25), whom he has promised to “break his bones”.
“The preparations went well, I’m fit and sharper than ever,” said Nontshinga, who is unbeaten in his 11 bouts, with nine of those not going the distance.
“I’m just looking forward to the fight and I promise that when I get inside that ring, I’m going to break that boy’s bones.
“I don’t want to knock him out early but if the opportunity is there then I’m taking him out inside the first round.
“That’s if the opportunity comes, but we have our own plan. I will execute the plan very well and we will see if he gets past plan A.”
Nontshinga’s promoter, Terris Ntutu of Rumble Africa Promotions, believes this is a milestone moment for East London fans, who will witness their local boy performing at the highest level.
“It’s a very proud moment and a serious milestone,” said Ntutu.
“It shouldn’t be just us as a promotions company who are proud, the entire community of East London and the entire authorities should be proud
“I wish everyone could understand the importance of having a boxing world champion in your country.
“We have had many credible world champions come from South Africa and we just wish everyone could understand the importance and seriousness of this event.”
Ntutu is confident that his young charge will get past Suganob and make many more successful title defences at home.
However, due to a lack of support from the East London municipality, Ntutu isn’t keen on bringing another big tournament. “We can’t keep going back where we are not supported, so I’m not sure we will have our next big title defence here,” added Ntutu.
“There are other places like Gqeberha that are interested.”
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