Chilemba challenges German WBA champion

South Africa-based Malawian boxer Isaac Chilemba could be back in the ring next month to face current World Boxing Association (WBA) light heavyweight champion Juergen Braehmer in Germany on March 12.

The former WBC silver light heavyweight champion has thrown his hat to challenge Braehmer who is on a lookout for an opponent after failing to defend his title against Thomas Oosthuizen who has pulled out due to drug and alcohol abuse.

Chilemba has told WBN Boxing News that he hopes his promoters Kathy Duva of Main Events can work some magic and place him in the opposite corner to face the 37-year-old Braehmer.

“I know Main Events have put my name forward as an opponent for Braehmer, so I’m hoping this comes off,” Chilemba told World Boxing News.

“I’m hoping for this opportunity as I believe that Braehmer has never defended it [WBA title] against a worthy opponent even though he has successfully defended his title many times.”

Chilemba lost an opportunity to challenge for a WBO world title after his defeat to Eleider Alvarez last November.

The boxer is hoping the loss would not stop him from fighting Braehmer.

But the boxer has to pray that Braehmer does not pick Nathan Cleverly, who has also shown interest to challenge him for the title.

“Yes, I also lost my last fight but the decision was quite contentious. However, at least I’m still ranked number three with the WBC.

“I believe I deserve the chance as I have never shied away from any fight that has been offered to me and it would be a great fight for both him and me to fight for the title.

“It’s less than six weeks away, but I am always in good shape and training whether I have a scheduled fight or not, so the timing is of no concern to me,” said Chilemba who is back in South Africa after the disappointing loss to Alvarez.