×

We've got news for you.

Register on SowetanLIVE at no cost to receive newsletters, read exclusive articles & more.
Register now

Berman fears Ji Hoon Kim

GOLDEN Gloves publicist Terry Pettifer has revealed that his boss, promoter Rodney Berman has serious fears about South Korean fighter Ji Hoon Kim.

GOLDEN Gloves publicist Terry Pettifer has revealed that his boss, promoter Rodney Berman has serious fears about South Korean fighter Ji Hoon Kim.

Kim - who also goes by the nickname "Volcano" - will challenge Zolani Marali for the IBO junior lightweight belt on September 12 at Emperors Palace .

Pettifer said yesterday that Berman was nervous that this savage puncher could derail one of their current torch bearers.

He said three of Kim's five losses occurred when he was still a teenager.

The 22-year-old fighter is unbeaten in his last 10 bouts, with nine knockouts. He has 18 wins in total, 15 by knockout.

"He boasts a knockout percentage of 65.22.

"Zolani simply has to win this fight if he is to stand a chance of later fighting for the WBC junior lightweight belt," explained Pettifer, a renowned analyst.

"Untouchable" Marali has 20 wins (13 KOs) and two defeats. He is the former IBO and WBF junior featherweight holder.

He is also the former SA, IBO and WBF super bantamweight and WBF junior lightweight holder.

His skills are honed by Colin Nathan.

Marali, 32, has impressed ratings committees from the WBC, WBA, IBF and WBO.

Meanwhile, IBO light heavyweight youth champion Thomas "Tommy Gun" Oosthuizen will appear in the undercard against Brazilian Cleber Alves for the IBO youth super middleweight strap.

Oosthuizen is trained by Harold Volbrecht.

South Africa-based Malawian Isaac "Golden Boy" Chilemba will defend the WBO Africa light heavyweight belt against Kenyan Douglas "Al Capone" Otieno.

This tournament, dubbed "Night of Gladiators" by Berman, will be televised live on SuperSport from 8pm.

Would you like to comment on this article?
Register (it's quick and free) or sign in now.

Speech Bubbles

Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.