Bongani Magasela

Bongani Magasela

The International Boxing Federationhas instilled fear in Nick Durandt by sanctioning Delvin Antonio Rodriguez from the Dominican Republic to fight Isaac Hlatswayo for the IBF welterweight number one spot.

"We have been given a tough opponent. We are in a real tough fight," Durandt said. "I believe that Rodriguez is the kind of opponent that will elevate Isaac to the level that we want him to be.

"When you go to war well armed with appropriate weapons, you conquer and that is what Isaac will do come November 1."

Hlatswayo had been scheduled to fight German Jan Zaveck, who is now rumoured to be injured.

Hlatswayo, the former SA and IBO undefeated lightweight champion who holds the IBO welterweight belt, is rated sixth while Rodriguez, who holds the USBA belt, occupies the 13th spot.

Meanwhile, Australian-based South African fighter, Lovemore Ndou, rated ninth, will fight American Kermit Cintron on October 18 for the vacant number two spot.

Joshua Clottey is the champion. His IBF belt will be on line against WBO holder Antonio Margarito at Mandalay Bay Casino in Las Vegas on November 1.

Durandt will be at the ringside. His other boxer, Moruti Mthalane will challenge IBF flyweight champion Nonito Donaire in the main supporting fight.