A highly anticipated boxing match is set to take place at the Guild Theatre on Sunday, as unbeaten Likho Sigaba faces off against Zolisa Batyi for the WBA Gold featherweight belt. Despite being friends, the two boxers will be fiercely competing for the title, with the loser risking a significant drop in national ratings. Sigaba, with an undefeated record of nine bouts, will be looking to prove himself in the featherweight division.
Zolisa Batyi, although coming off two consecutive losses, is surprisingly favored to win the match. Batyi has already planned beyond this fight, targeting Bongani Fule in a provincial title challenge. Promoter Mzi Booi confirmed that Batyi's camp has accepted the future bout, showing readiness to accommodate whoever emerges victorious. This indicates that Batyi is confident in his abilities and is looking to move forward with his career.
The match between Sigaba and Batyi is considered a crossroads bout, with the loser potentially tumbling down the national ratings. Batyi, in particular, is at risk of being relegated to the division's fringes if he loses, marking his third consecutive defeat. Despite this, Batyi has thrown down the gauntlet, challenging Sigaba to bring his A-game as he chases his second win on the local scene.
Sigaba, who has moved from the bantamweight division, is yet to establish himself in the featherweight division. The match against Batyi will likely indicate where he stands in the new weight class. Additionally, there are questions surrounding Sigaba's long-term dedication to boxing, as he has hinted at exploring other avenues due to his background in analytical chemistry.
Both boxers were in high spirits during a pre-fight meeting at Malcomes Mall gymnasium in Southernwood on Wednesday. Sigaba appeared relaxed, describing the fight as his crowning moment in the division. He mentioned that his body could no longer handle the bantamweight division, but he is now prepared mentally and physically for the featherweight division.
The tournament features potentially explosive bouts, including a provincial flyweight title duel between defending champion Siyamthanda Mbali and Masivuye Piliso. The competition in the featherweight division is particularly fierce, with a loss likely to significantly impact the boxers' ratings.
The upcoming match between Sigaba and Batyi has generated significant interest, with fans eagerly awaiting the outcome. The two boxers have a close relationship, but their friendship will be put aside on Sunday as they compete for the WBA Gold featherweight title. The event promises to be an exciting and closely contested match.
Key points
- The match between Sigaba and Batyi is a crossroads bout that could significantly impact the loser's national ratings.
- Sigaba is undefeated in nine bouts, but faces a step up in opposition against Batyi.
- Batyi has already planned beyond the fight, targeting Bongani Fule in a provincial title challenge.
