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Johannesburg - The wheels of fortune turned in favour of South African rising star Thulani “Tulz Evolution” Mbenge when his non-title bout against Mexican Diego “Demoledor” Cruz, scheduled for March 3 at Emperors Palace, was elevated to a World Boxing Council (WBC) international title fight.
The vacant WBC international belt was supposed to be contested by British champion Bradley “Super” Skeete and International Boxing Federation intercontinental welterweight champion Laszlo Toth on February 10 at London’s Copper Box Arena.
Skeete and Toth were scheduled to face off on the undercard of a World Boxing Organisation bantamweight title fight between Zolani “Last Born” Tete and Omar “The Hurricane” Narvaez.
The tournament was cancelled after Tete sustained a calf injury during his preparations last month.
The title fight is a potential big step for the South African welterweight champion because the WBC international championship is an important stepping stone to outright championship. Most fighters who have been WBC international champions have subsequently progressed to win the major WBC title.
Communication between promoter Rodney Berman and key WBC officials resulted in the bout getting championship status.
Mbenge’s mentor, Sean Smith, says his charge is ready to grab this opportunity with both hands.
“It is a great opportunity for him. Obviously, Mbenge wants to win this contest and get closer to his dream of a world title, which has always been his dream. This opportunity is a perfect vehicle to carry him to that goal.”
Smith further said his camp is well prepared for this contest.
“The preparations have gone well. We did what needs to done for this fight and we are ready for Cruz,” he said.
The much experienced Cruz could test the hard-hitting Eastern Cape fighter, who has not fought any boxer of the Mexican’s calibre. The Mdantsane-born rising star said he expected a tough contest against Cruz.
“Mexican fighters are hard nuts to crack. They are strong and forward-coming boxers, but their fighting style does not intimidate me,” said Mbenge.
The boxer, who last year was pipped by Tete for Boxing SA’s boxer of the year accolade, remains unbeaten after 12 assignments.
The visiting challenger has chalked up 18 wins, five defeats and two losses in 25 bouts.
The winner will make his first title defence against the British prospect Skeete.
