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Johannesburg - Fresh from an inspiring win 10 days ago, Mzuvukile “Old Bones” Magwaca is being groomed for a shot at the International Boxing Federation (IBF) bantamweight title.
The crown is currently held by Irishman Ryan Burnett.
The Western Cape-based Magwaca stretched his unbeaten boxing record to 23 professional fights by defeating Namibian Immanuel Naidjala on points in an IBF intercontinental title defence at the Orient Theatre, East London, last week Friday.
Old Bones previously held the World Boxing Association (WBA) international and the International Boxing Organisation intercontinental belts. He now holds the IBF intercontinental championship.
His trainer Zola Koti believes the time is right for the 26-year-old to challenge for Burnett’s diadem.
“Old Bones has never fought for a South African title, but has already proven himself by winning the international and intercontinental crowns,” Koti said.
“Our focus right now is to get him to challenge Burnett for the IBF belt. It would be nice if the fight takes place in February, depending on whether Burnett’s camp will agree to it.”
Koti believes his charge will dethrone Burnett, who has not tasted defeat in a career spanning 18 wins (nine by knockout). Burnett beat Kazakhstan’s Zhanat Zhakiyanov by a unanimous points decision for the IBF and WBA titles at SSE Arena, Belfast, in October.
Magwaca was born in East London but is now based in Khayelitsha, Cape Town. He says he cannot wait for an opportunity to slug it out with Burnett.
“I’ve seen him in action on several occasions. He’s a good champion who moves around a lot in the ring to confuse his opponents.
“I’m ready to dethrone him. Let them bring it on,” said Magwaca.
Old Bones said he was happy about his performance against Naidjala.
“He is a good fighter who caught me off guard with good combination. But I’m happy I beat him. I’m now ready to win the IBF belt.”
He has won 11 of his 23 matches inside the distance.
