Joe Maphosa might have title bouts in his sights – but that does not mean he will be taking his next opponent lightly.
The undefeated Teessider takes on Spain-based Nicaraguan, Moises Mojica, in a six-round international match on MTK’s bill at the Newcastle Eagles Community Arena on Saturday.
Punch-lines reported how “Smokin’ Joe” had been promised a crack at WBO European belt holder, Harvey Horn, on the BT Sports/ITV-screened event at the weekend gone at the York Hall, only for the match to fall through.
Maphosa says he remains positive such nights will come for the Stockton-trained super-flyweight.
“Definitely,” he said. “I’m looking to be boxing for my first title this year, 100 per cent.
“I need tests like this Saturday and I can’t wait.”
Maphosa will be looking to register his 10th straight victory but he accepts his 24-year-old opponent will not be easy pickings.
“He’s boxed decent opponents,” said the Natural Progression fighter.
“He’s boxed at a heavier weight, so I know he’s not going to be a pushover. He will be a good opponent for me.”
One of a seemingly endless line of Nicaraguan boxers now residing in Espana, Mojica has nine wins, nine defeats and two draws on his record.
He would appear to carry a bit of a clout – six of his nine victories have come inside the distance – while his only losses seem to be against the best opposition.
Talking of good opposition, Maphosa clinched his best win last time out back in December, when he took an impressive eight-round points triumph over former amateur flyweight champ, Marius Vysniauskas, at the Rainton Arena.
The Imran Naeem-trained boxer was the main support act that evening to the Ellis Corrie-Tom Hill clash for the vacant Northern Area welterweight title and it’s the same again in Newcastle where Corrie defends his belt against Chad Ellis in a contest which looks like being a cracker.
MTK stage 14 bouts in total with boxing getting under way at 5pm.
A bumper crowd is expected but the promoters expect tickets to remain available.
Words: Roy Kelly Picture: Jennifer Charlton
