National junior welterweight champion Hannock ‘Hard Knock’ Phiri underlined his credentials when he defeated seasoned Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) boxer Regen Champion- Kaponda on unanimous points in an international non-title fight at Bingu International Convention Centre on Saturday night.
It was a relatively balanced affair for the better part of the fight as the two boxers sized each other up in the first two rounds.
But real business started in the third round as Phiri unleashed a flurry of punches but Champion withstood the pressure.
On the other hand, Champion was clinging to his opponent too much, to the displeasure of patrons who braved chilly weather on Saturday night.
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Phiri unleashed a powerful jab that sent Champion to the canvas in round number five but the Dzaleka-based DRC boxer managed to beat the 10 seconds count.
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In round eight, Phiri also sent his opponent to the canvas, to the delight of his supporters, but the challenger was up again.
Sensing danger, Champion upped his game in the last two rounds as he was looking for the killer punch.
However, Phiri was equal to the task and most of his punches were on target.
After the bout, Phiri admitted that Champion gave him a good run for his money.
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“It was one of the toughest bouts for me. I am delighted with the victory,” Phiri said.
However, Champion said he was ready for the rematch in the near future.
“If I have a chance next time, I will beat him,’ he said.
In the main supporting bout, Yamikani Mtambo defeated Yamikani Mkandawire on points.
Wilson Phiri beat Limbani Chipala whereas Yusuf Ali beat Moses Banda.
All the fights ended on points.
New Dawn Boxing Promotions organised the bout and the stable’s managing director Michael Chimaliza said he was impressed with the standards of boxing.
“I am happy that the fans turned out in large numbers despite chilly weather. I thank the sponsors for making it possible,” Chimaliza said.
Sico Holdings Limited Chairperson Charles Zimba said the company was proud to be associated with boxing in the country.
“Our aim is to develop boxing in the country. We believe that athletes need to be supported. We will continue to invest more resources in boxing,” Zimba said.
Sico provided K7.5 million towards the bout.
PLMB Engineering Solutions donated K3.5 million whereas Insight Consulting Group provided K1 million.
