Local boxer Tshepang ‘Gear Box’ Babui has called on Batswana to throng the Masa Hotel open spaces this coming Wednesday to witness a local fighter win a title fight for the first time in Botswana.
The local pugilist will be the main attraction when he takes on South African boxer Sam Sithole in a 12 rounds bout for the regional African Boxing Union (ABU) Featherweight title.
Speaking in an interview, Babui said he is ready for his first ever title fight, adding that he is confident ‘it will remain home.’
“I have prepared very well for this fight and I have done all I needed to do. I do not think this fight will last its scheduled 12 rounds,” the pugilist said.
While he said he would not underestimate his opponent, the local boxer however said given the tough bouts he has been involved in ever since turning professional, he has all the confidence he will emerge victorious.
“I am not under any pressure going into this fight. I have fought against tough opponents away from home and I believe I will have an advantage when fighting in front of my home crowd,” said Babui.
“All I have to do is to make sure I fight a high tempo battle and wear out my opponent. The reason why I am called ‘Gear Box’ is because I have an enduring stamina and I am confident I can wear out Sithole over the scheduled rounds,” he said.
For his part, promoter Thuso ‘Scud’ Khubamang of Scud Missile Promotions, which is also the stable for Babui said his boxer is ready for the title challenge.
“We have long been waiting for this fight and we are ready. So far in his professional career, Babui has fought eight bouts, winning six (6) of them and drawing the other two. He has done very well and I am confident he will do very well again on Wednesday,” Khubamang opined.
Describing Babui, the former boxer now turned promoter said the local boxer is a very difficult opponent to fight, adding that his height is his best advantage
To ensure his boxer gets the best training ahead of the crucial first title fight, Khubamang said Babui was taken to train with different coaches both here in Botswana and in South Africa.
Meanwhile, spectators at the oncoming locally hosted pro boxing extravaganza will get to witness other local boxers make their own mark in the paid ranks.
Aside from the main event featuring Babui and Sithole, the Wednesday Fight Bill will see Karabo Mothibedi (Botswana) face Sanele Maduna (SA), Mpumelelo Tshabalala (SA) versus Mthobisi Nkosi (SA), Ryan Seakolo (Botswana) vs Mpumi Mayisela (SA) while Boifang Kenaope (Botswana) will trade leather with Siyabonga Xulu (SA).
