Chilemba, manager part ways
Celebrated South Africa-based Malawian boxer Isaac ‘Golden Boy’ Chilemba has parted ways with his long-time manager Jodi Solomon on personal grounds.
The former International Boxing Federation (IBO) champion, who is in the twilight of his career, disclosed in an interview yesterday that he has since engaged a new manager Sean Smith as he looks forward to his upcoming IBO international Super middleweight title bout against Cuban Osleys Iglesias.
He said: “I now have a new manager having mutually parted ways with Jodi solomon earlier this year.
“There was a lot happening and having been together for a very long time, I felt it was the right time to go separate ways.
“So, I just want to finish my career in a different environment and a better space.
“So, we are getting to understand each other and sharpening up on a few areas.”
On the progress of his preparations, the 34-year-old said: “I would say, so far so good, just pushing on fitness and adjusting to the new set-up.”
Chilemba said although the fight contract has not been signed yet, it is scheduled for Poland this month [April].
“For now, I am just waiting for the communication on the actual date as the organisers said it would be during the first week of April.”
On his intention to retire, the ‘Golden Boy’ said: “For now I’m targeting one to three more bouts, but will see how I feel after the upcoming fight and the next one.
“I might fight and decide it’s enough or have a feel to do more. So, I will see.”
His record stands at 26 wins, including 10 TKOs, eight losses with one TKO and three draws.
On his part, Iglesias, 25, who turned professional in 2019, has won all his three bouts since turning pro.
Malawi Professional Boxing Control Board president Lonzoe ‘Defector’ Zimba said they are happy that Chilemba has parted ways with Solomon and has found a new manager.
“There were so many issues happening behind the scenes between Chilemba and his former manager but we cannot disclose them because they were private and confidential. Such issues had a potential to mentally affect his career and we are happy that he has found a new manager. We are confident that now the boxer will fight his next bouts with joy and a sober mind,” he said.
Veteran boxing promoter Steve Mawenzi Msiska yesterday described Chilemba’s decision as a step in the right direction.
“For sometime now, it was evident that Chilemba and Solomon were not in good books and such a relationship could lead to poor performance in the ring. In boxing or any other profession, there are certain ‘small things’ that can lead to your downfall career-wise. The boxer has done well to change his manager ahead of his crucial bout,” he said.
