LONDON – Zimbabwe born boxer Joe ‘Smokin Joe’ Maphosa is firm favourite for the English super-flyweight championship against Craig Derbyshire on Friday night.
Maphosa with 10 straight wins to his name, takes on Derbyshire in the headline act of a six-fight card at the Rainton Arena.
“I’m ready for my coronation. I have thoroughly prepared for this fight. I have waited for a long time for this but the time has come for me to announce myself to the world,” said Maphosa.
“I’m dedicating this fight to all my fans both here in the UK and in Zimbabwe.”
Maphosa, trained by Imran Naeem in the Natural Progression gym in Stockton, is a mature, clever fella, he knows the score and is aware of Derbyshire’s attitude and determination.
Derbyshire’s record on paper is 7-28-3, but that does not tell the story of the man who is the former title holder and has taken part in five 10-round buts (three wins against two losses).
