Reigning IBF world flyweight titleholder Moruti Mthalane has sent a warning out to the other world champions in his division – insisting he is ready for a unification showdown and will ‘take it with both hands.’
Mthalane (39-2-0, 26 KOs) has been in incredible form in recent times, having gone unbeaten since 2009, leading to him winning the world title in 2018 and making three straight successful title defences against fearsome Japanese foes.
While he may now be 37, the pride of South Africa has shown no signs of slowing down, and has now turned his attention to a unification battle with one of the other world champions, with WBC king Julio Cesar Martinez at the top of his list.
Mthalane said: “I heard that boxing is slowly making a comeback but let’s see what’s happening. My name has been mentioned for unification fights. It is every boxer’s dream to fight in a unification fight and win different belts.
“If I get that opportunity, I will take it with both hands. I have two options to fight for unifications or make mandatory defences of my IBF title. I will sit down with my manager (Colin Nathan, MTK Global Head of Africa) and discuss which route we are going to take.
“No doubt about it, I am still feeling very strong to compete with the younger boxers and I warn them they must not think they will beat me because I am old. I’m still healthy and ready to fight any top flyweight in the world.
“I think I’m ready for anyone but I’d like to fight the WBC flyweight champion as I can have that opportunity to make history by holding two world belts.
“During this lockdown I’ve spent most of the time with my family, but I’ve also kept busy with training at home. Even though it’s not the same like I’m training in the boxing gym, it’s better than not training at all.”
–boxingscene.com
