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chance for nongqayi

Bongani Magasela

Bongani Magasela

South Africa's top boxing promoter Branco Milenkovic, who has received international acclaim for his sterling job, has put a smile on the face of Simphiwe "Golden Master" Nongqayi.

Milenkovic, who was recently voted World Boxing Council (WBC) promoter of the year, the first time an African promoter received the honour, announced yesterday that Nongqayi will fight for the International Boxing Federation (IBF) junior bantamweight's number one spot before the year ends.

Milenkovic said Nongqayi, who remains cheerless despite holding the World Boxing Foundation (WBF) belt, will fight Mexican Francisco Arce in November.

Arce is the younger brother of Jorge Arce who stopped "Hawk" Makepula in four rounds in a WBC title eliminator in 2006.

Francisco, who boasts 18 knockouts from 24 wins, four losses and two draws, is rated 12th, one spot above the undefeated Nongqayi who has six stoppages after 14 fights.

Nongqayi's fighting prowess is honed in Gauteng by respected trainer Nick Durandt.

Nongqayi's fortunes have not changed since winning the WBF belt in December 2006 because he rarely fights.

In May last year he stopped Rafael Tirado in seven rounds, Feliciano Ledezma in five in August, and outpointed Julio David Roque Ler in May this year. Nongqayi must get past Arce to be in line for more action, fame and fortune.

Milenkovic and Arce's promoter, Fernando Beltran, whose son Fernando junior recently defeated Takalani Ndlovu for the IBO featherweight belt, have until October 13 to reach an agreement on the fight - failing which it will go to a purse bid.

For the record Milenkovic successfully negotiated nine legitimate world title fights (seven IBF and two WBC) featuring South Africans this year.

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