Bongani Magasela

Bongani Magasela

Evans Mbamba could kiss the WBC International junior bantamweight title goodbye tonight if he underestimates Unathi Gqokoma.

This fight, which will be promoted by Obed Molekwa and Jurez Manqina of Peoples Promotions at Nasrec Arena, will be broadcast live by SABC on Blow by Blow at 10pm.

By right Mbamba, from Ekurhuleni, should reign supreme.

The left-hander trained by Nick Durandt has great potential and reasonable experience gained from 14 fights compared to that of the Eastern Cape challenger who has has eight wins against two defeats.

But it will be foolhardy for Mbamba to go in there thinking it will just be a walk in the park. Gqokoma is a smart mover and a puncher.

Mbamba said Gqokoma had never fought credible opponents except for Zolile Mbityi, whom he defeated in November 2006 to win the title.

"I will fight to the bitter end to retain my title," he said.

Gqokoma's trainer Dudu Bungu said his charge will shock the boxing fraternity but only if he stuck to the game plan.

"There is nothing special about Mbamba except that he is a pressure fighter," said the younger brother of Vuyani "The Beast" Bungu.

Meanwhile, Sipho "Tsunami" Taliwe cannot afford a defeat against Sfiso Msibi, or he will ruin the chance of fighting for the South African junior lightweight title. Taliwe is ranked third while Msibi is yet to convince the ratings committee.

There are six other fights tonight.