British boxer wary of Chilemba
British boxer Tony Bellew has said he is anticipating a tough bout when he takes to the ring against revered Malawian pugilist Isaac ’Golden Boy’ Chilemba in Liverpool on March 30.
Chilemba told Weekend Nation in an exclusive interview on Friday that he is scheduled to depart for the United Kingdom tomorrow (Sunday) to step up preparations for the showdown.
The Malawian ‘Golden Boy’ will face Bellew for the right to challenge WBC world champion Chad Dawson.
The Liverpool light heavyweight was quoted by the British Daily Mail describing Chilemba as a top-class opponent.
“It is a massive night and Isaac is really a top-class opponent. He beat Miranda at late notice and has only one defeat from five years ago. So, he will be well up for this and he’s in good form.
“But I am on the edge of world title fight and I have worked too hard to give it away now. It’s a great card for Liverpool fans and I am sure they will turn out in force on March 30,” said Bellew.
And speaking in an interview from Intercontinental Hotel in Sandton on Thursday, Chilemba said he has stepped up preparations for the bout. He also played down predictions by pundits who are tipping the scales in his opponent’s favour.
“I am not moved by that. I am raring to go and I have intensified my preparations for the bout considering what is at stake. My eyes are set for the world title bout against Dawson.
“I am not moved by pre-bout predictions that are tipping the scales in Bellew’s favour,” said Chilemba.
The celebrated Malawian boxer said in his preparations, he will concentrate on endurance and tactics.
“I am leaving this Sunday and I am all set for the bout,” he said.
Chilemba is ranked at number five by the WBC and has not lost since a six-round defeat in South Africa in 2007, which he avenged four months later.
Promoter of the fight Eddie Hearn said: “It will be a crucial night for Tony with a win securing a well earned second world title shot.
“Isaac is a tough customer though and Tony will have to be at his best to get a win,” said Hearn.
The 25-year-old Chilemba will face Bellew in a final eliminator at the Echo Arena in Liverpool.
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