Bongani Siqoko : Boxing
The Beast will be back to his best. That’s the promise as Vuyani Bungu prepares to defend his International Boxing Federation junior featherweight title against Arnel Barotillo at the Carousel on November 15.
Golden Gloves Boxing Promotions publicist Terry Pettifer said fans can expect a different Bungu. “People have been complaining that Bungu is not the same. They complain that he does not show the same composure, strength and sharpness that won him the title against Kennedy McKinney in 1994 and made him the darling of the nation,” he said.
Pettifer promised the fans that Bungu will live up to his nickname “The Beast”. He said: “Bungu will be the Beast on November 15. He is a lot better than his last fight.”
His sentiments were echoed by promoter Rodney Berman. “Bungu has been an excellent world champion since winning the IBF title back in 1994. But after nine defences there are now those pundits who feel he may be slowing down. But I can assure you that our guy will be back to his tenacious best in this fight with Barotillo.”
After watching Barotillo on tape, “The Beast” does not feel threatened by his opponent. He says Barotillo is more of fighter than a boxer. “But he will suit my style,” he said.
He said he has to win this one for his fans, his pride and his crictics as well. “This is my last fight for 1997 and I will give my fans a Christmas present on November 15 by beating Barotillo. I love my fans,” added Bungu.
He said he hoped Barotillo goes the full distance as “I would love to prove to my critics that Bungu is still the Beast.”
This is Bungu’s 10th title defence and he is not just aiming at breaking Brian Mitchell’s record of 13 title defences but to go as far as defending it seven times more than him. “I will defend this title 20 times,” he said. “After Barotillo I want Junior Jones.” Bungu has an impressive professional record of 35 fights, 33 wins (18 knockouts), and two losses.
Berman said should Bungu go past Barotillo “a world title unification match awaits him in the new year”. He said Bungu could fight World Boxing Organisation (WBO) titleholder Junior Jones – currently the best featherweight in the world.
“That bout in itself would be a fantastic money spinner, and needless to say it would set Vuyani up for life.”
Bungu, who has been preparing in his home town – East London – under the watchful eye of trainer-cum-manager Mzimasi Mnguni, arrived at the Carousel on Sunday with two sparring partners – Jaji Sibali and Kororo Goduka.
When the Mail & Guardian visited him on Wednesday, Bungu looked in his ripping, tearing best. “I’m 100% fit,” he said.
Berman and company are leaving no stone unturned in ensuring that Bungu wins this fight. Pettifer said they are concerned about the cut that has been troubling “The Beast” in his last two fights.
Now they have secured the services of one of the top cut-men in the world – Jim Strickland. Pettifer said Strickland will be in the corner of both Bungu and Baby Jake Matlala. “We want the best for our boys,” he said.