Hannock Phiri set to restore battered image
National Light welterweight champion Hannock Phiri says he will be out to restore his bruised reputation when he faces South Africa-based compatriot Dennis Mwale on ‘Knockout Suicide’ boxing bill.
The two will square off for two belts, Universal Boxing Organisation and national light welterweight, at Kamuzu University of Health Sciences (Kuhes) Sports Complex on April 28.
Phiri, speaking for the first time after suffering a third round technical knockout (TKO) against Jakhongir Rasulov in Uzbekistan last month, said he cannot afford to dent his record again.
“Two belts are on the line and I cannot afford to lose. I am the national champion for the light welterweight division and I want to defend the belt. We will also fight for an UBO title, which I want to win for the first time,” he said.
Commenting on his downfall, Phiri blamed the loss on jet lag.
“We did not have time to rest in Uzbekistan; as such, I was slow and my performance poor. I was also caught with a lucky punch and it was difficult to recover. This time, I am training at home and I will not spend time travelling,” he said.
Meanwhile, former World Boxing Forum (WBF) welterweight champion Agnes Mtimaukanena is expected to face a yet to be named opponent on the same bill.
Mtimaukanena is making a return to active boxing, having last fought at Club 24/7 at Kameza Roundabout in Blantyre, where she defeated Eugene Kayange on points in 2017.
