Joe Maphosa will take another step towards a championship challenge when he steps into the ring for a ninth time this weekend – but he will make that final step only when the time is right.
That was the message from coach Imran Naeem ahead of Saturday’s eight-round international bout for “Smokin’ Joe” at Dunston, where he meets Nicaragua’s Jerson Larios .
The gifted Thornaby star, who headlines the Lancastrian Suite event staged by Black Flash Promotions in association with Queensberry Promotions, has been linked with a British title clash with fellow unbeaten ace, Sunny Edwards.
“Showtime”, younger brother of WBC world flyweight champion, and “Smokin’ Joe” are not miles apart in terms of fight log – Edwards has 11 straight wins to Maphosa’s eight.
However, Imran says it’s crucial the Teessider builds his ring-time before tackling the World Boxing Organisation’s European super-flyweight belt holder.
“We were offered a fight with Sunny for the British title,” explained Imran, who is pictured above with Joe.
“There are no problems with that match – Joe has the skill set to be British champion I’m confident of that.
“But it’s a fight for the future.
“Sunny is a very good boxer and is already has a title but he has also boxed four 10-round contests and has another one coming up very soon.
“Joe has only just boxed a six-rounder and needs more experience and more rounds.
“We’re not avoiding anyone and Joe against Sunny will be a great fight, but we are developing towards a title rather than jumping into one, hopefully it will come this year.
“Big pay-days and big fights are what Joe will have, but when he’s ready.
“We’ve spoken about it and he understands.
“Joe is a fantastic kid, he’s fit, he works very hard and dedicates himself to the sport and I know what he’s capable of doing.”
Saturday’s bout for the Frank Warren prospect looks ideal for the 25-year-old.
Now based in Spain, the 24-year-old has a winning record with seven victories and six defeats.
“This Saturday’s bout is another step in the right direction,” said Imran. “It’s eight rounds and getting us towards that title distance.
“Larios looks a tough kid, who will have a go, he’s won seven out of 12, so this is a good test.”
Maphosa, a graduate of the Tees Active Sports Academy, goes into the contest following a tremendous win over Louis Norman last time out.
Naeem’s other Natural Progression Boxing Academy unbeaten prospect, Luke Cope has been ruled out with an injury.
There is a good cast list at the sold-out show, with comeback man Jeff Saunders in action, along with two others who have had long lay-offs, Basi Razaq and Michael Watson while there is a debut for Durham’s Jamie Bates and an appearance from Liverpool’s Marcel Braithwaite.
Words: Roy Kelly Picture: Tom Collins/ Stockton & Billingham Life
