Joe Maphosa is back in business, not that it should come as any sort of surprise.
And the 27-year-old can’t wait to tape up the gloves again on Saturday, December 18, when he boxes for the third time in three months.
“Smokin’ Joe” is to be part of another huge night for the North-East when his manager, Phil Jeffries, links up with new boxing force, Probellum, to stage a major show at the Rainton Arena, starring Lewis Ritson, Tommy Ward and Ricky Burns.
Maphosa will go into Probellum’s debut UK event full of confidence after outpointing Adam Yahaya at a Houghton venue, which is fast becoming the Teessider’s second home.
It was his first outing since suffering a split-decision defeat to Craig Derbyshire in September for the vacant English super-flyweight championship.
“I’m grateful to Phil, MTK and now Probellum, for these opportunities,” said Maphosa.
“During the Covid crisis I was out for a long time, but things seem to be flying now.
“Being active and with good fights is just what we need.
“I want to keep busy, keep learning, keep developing and being back out again so quick is great news.
“Hopefully, another good opponent would help massively.
“You learn more from fights like that than just going in and having what effectively is just a work-out.
“I’m looking to progress my career and a test does that.
“I’m looking forward to the show – it’s a big card for the North-East.
“These are the events I feel like I belong on and my thanks go to Phil and Probellum.”
After a relatively cagey opening against the southpaw Yahaya, Maphosa was soon into his stride in win number 11 for the Thornaby star.
Some sharp work to the head and body of Yahaya laid the groundwork for an impressive second half.
Maphosa was both quick and hungry, picking his shots superbly and delivering combinations upstairs and downstairs.
Yahaya was no mug and he came out with some intent for round six, but the Imran Naeem-trained boxer was in no mood to let the Tanzanian have the final word.
He landed well on the back foot before moving inside to score with some excellent close-in work.
“I was a little nervous at the start after what happened before in my English title fight,” explained Joe.
“But I picked things up and I was soon my relaxed old self.
“It was a good win against an experienced, tricky opponent who came here with a decent record.
“I was happy to be back at so soon and get a good win under my belt.
“There is plenty more in the arsenal and I’m looking forward to showing it.”
Words: Roy Kelly Picture: Jennifer Charlton
