Coach Imran Naeem is looking forward to watching Joe Maphosa’s career make another big leap forward.
The gifted flyweight takes part in his first six-rounder in South Shields on Saturday night when he faces veteran Sergey Tasimov.
Maphosa produced an outstanding display in his last appearance when he defeated Gary Reeve in Houghton last month.
His movement and precise punching proved a highlight of the evening when he recorded his fourth straight victory.
Now he takes those skills to Temple Park, against a cute Russian, who is now based in Estonia.
Maphosa has always looked a great prospect after a fine amateur career but, under his Stockton trainer he is looking even better.
“Joe is progressing really well,” Imran told punch-lines. “His strength, his boxing IQ, punch variety and tactical awareness have all grown since turning pro.
“I had a lot of comments after his last outing saying that alongside Tommy Ward, Joe was the stand-out boxer.
“We took a lot from that and carried the momentum forward into this fight.”
The Thornaby flyweight is one of a clutch of North-East boxers operating superbly between eight and nine stones.
A title shot is not in the realms of fantasy for the ex-Tees Active academy member given the serious contenders in the flyweight sections are not exactly great in number, hence a step up to six rounds on the Steve Wraith-promoted event.
Sunderland’s Thomas Essomba became Commonwealth flyweight champ in his SIXTH bout while Anthony Nelson, who tops the ball at Temple Park on Saturday night, won the super-fly belt in his 10th appearance.
“Flyweights can get their opportunities earlier than most so we felt it was the right time to up his rounds and I’m sure after the back to back camps you’ll once again see the best of him,” added Imran.
There are three other members of the lighter brigade in action at Temple Park, Nelson and his Mal Gates colleagues Paul Gidney and Sam Menzies.
Jeff Saunders, with a perfect 13-0 record, looks to register another W, as does light-heavy Lawrence Osueke.
Doors open at 7pm with the card beginning at 8pm. Tickets are available on the door.
Words: Roy Kelly
