The all-Mthatha boxing battle might become a reality after Simpiwe Konkco accepted the challenge of homeboy Siphamandla Baleni after Konkco ended his inactivity with a points win over Filipino Ariston Aton at the weekend.
Konkco had not fought in close to three years, with several bouts often cancelled at the eleventh hour, when he finally made it into the Sun City ring in North West on Saturday.
While the spotlight was taken by the celebrity exhibition between musicians Cassper Nyovest and Naakmusiq, Konkco went about his business behind the scenes.
Despite the long inactivity, the former IBO world mini-flyweight champion never showed any signs of ring rust as he dominated the Filipino in almost all the rounds.
Konkco attributed his sharpness to the hours he put in at the gym, including sparring sessions at Colin Nathan’s HotBox gymnasium.
“I also surprised myself with how sharp I was after a long time away from the ring,” he said.
“I guess it comes down to discipline and dedication because I was hungry for action.”
Konkco’s long inactivity had cost him ratings in all major world bodies and at 36 he will have to start afresh to climb up the ladder before catapulting himself to the title mix.
But there could be a shorter route of achieving that goal if the bout against homebody Baleni comes to fruition.
Baleni called out Konkco before his controversial loss to Ayanda Ndulani for Konkco’s old IBO title in November 2021.
And Konkco is happy to oblige, especially as Baleni has a dedicated promoter backing him.
Baleni is waiting for the IBO to grant him a rematch against Ndulani after he filed a protest over the fight outcome.
But Konkco feels the bout against Baleni could be organised even if it is not a title fight.
“We can make it even if there is no title at stake, “ Konkco said.
Baleni’s high ratings in all major world bodies is tantalising bait for Konkco.
He is rated seventh by the IBF, which enjoys cordial relations with Konkco’s manager Nathan, while he occupies eighth in the WBO rankings.
The WBC and WBA also rate him in their top 20, making him an interesting opponent to target.
“Beggars cannot be choosers so I am in for this fight, especially if Baleni also wants it.”
The fight would be the biggest event to feature two Mthatha boxers, especially if it is held in the area.
Konkco has now compiled 20 wins with six losses, having shared the ring with great Thai boxer Wanheng Menayothin to whom he lost the WBC title challenge in his last bout before his Aton victory.
DispatchLIVE
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