If Thabiso "The Rock" Mchunu's buoyant mood is anything to by, then South Africa will produce its first WBO champion in 13 years.

Mchunu had his last training session yesterday before leaving tonight for the USA where he will challenge WBO cruiserweight Ukrainian champion Aleksandr Usyk in California on December 17.

Corrie "The Sniper" Sanders was the last local boxer to win that belt in 2003. He knocked Wladimir Klitschko in the second round for the heavyweight title in Germany.

Coincidentally Mchunu is left handed like Sanders. Mchunu will challenge a Ukrainian who is a fellow countryman to Klitschko.

Mchunu's upcoming fight will form part of the bill that will be headlined by Bernard Hopkins - the 52-year-old American legend - who will end his illustrious career against WBC International light heavyweight champion Joe Smith Junior also from America.

Mchunu leaves with trainers Sean and George Smith, Shannon Strydom, Wayne Taylord (condition coach) and newly crowned ABU welterweight champion Thulani Mbenge.

"Tribute to World Sports Betting - Adcorp - Sizanani Plastics and CCISA who are funding the camp and travelling costs," said Mchunu who is rated No 9 by WBC, 14th by the IBF and 12th in the WBO rankings.

"I prepared myself for war. I will be on song doing twice as much better that what he [Usyk] will do. I have experience, hand speed, power and ring general ship. The belt is coming here."

Mchunu has 11 knockouts in 17 wins against two losses. He is no stranger to the American fight public, having fought and won three bouts there. He first beat former heavyweight contender Eddie Chambers on points over 10 rounds before being signed by Kathy Duva of Main Events. The boxer then beat Olanrewaju Duradola for the NABF, and defended successfully against Garret Wilson.

Usyk - the 29-year-old 2012 Olympian champion who turned professional in 2013 - will be making his first appearance in the USA. He has 10 wins from 10 fights.