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NAILED: Vusi Malinga, left, throws a punch at Michael Domingos during their IBF bantamweight eliminator in Mmabatho, North West, recently. PHOTO: ANTONIO MUCHAVE.

 This is a dream come true 

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It was announced on Tuesday that Vusi will get a crack at the vacant IBF bantamweight title when he fights Mexican Leo Santa Cruz in Los Angeles , US, on June 2.

"This is a dream come true," said Malinga, whose fight has been arranged by promoter Branco Milenkovic.

"It is going to be the biggest fight in my career. I have been patiently waiting for this opportunity for a long time and I won't disappoint."

Malinga is training in the Nick Durandt gym, where he is sparring with some of the boxers in Durandt's stable.

Malinga's father and trainer Jabu, as well as brothers Peter and Patrick, were present at the announcement of the title fight. Peter, a former IBO and WBU welterweight champion, has since retired. Patrick is a former South African lightweight champion. Sugarboy Malinga was twice WBC super middleweight champion

Jabu said: "Vusi is focused on the fight and I'm impressed with his work rate. I have no doubt he is more than ready to be crowned a world champion."

Milenkovic said the fight will be shown live on US television station Showtime.

"Vusi is more experienced than Santa Cruz, and is ranked the No1 challenger by the IBF. He has fought 24 times with 20 victories, 12 of them being knockouts," said Milenkovic.

"He has lost only three fights, with one draw. Vusi is determined to become the fifth current IBF champion in South Africa."

Santa Cruz boast 20 fights with 19 wins, 11 knockouts and one draw. He is ranked No5 by the IBF.