Opportunities are opening up for newly-crowned World Boxing Organisation (WBO) junior-bantamweight champion Phumelela ‘The Truth’ Cafu, who dethroned Japanese boxer Kosei Tanaka via a split decision at the Ariake Arena in Tokyo, Japan, on Monday.
Cafu fought his way to victory getting the nod from two judges – Phil Austin and Waleska Roldan (both 114-113) while Jesse Reyes (114-113)gave the fight to Tanaka.
Duncan Village-born Cafu is now reaping the fruits of his hard work as he’s joining Akihiko Honda’s Teiken Promotions in Japan. This is the same promotional outfit that promoted his fight against Tanaka.
“The possibility of returning to Japan is very high. Phumelela is signing up with Mr Honda’s Teiken Promotions. That deal makes business sense for all of us,” Cafu’s trainer and manager Colin ‘Nomakanjani’ Nathan said.
“The kid needs to make money as he’s the champion of the world. We’re all realistic. He’s a credible champion and deserves to be paid very well.”
The 77-year-old Honda is one of the most experienced boxing promoters having promoted 297 tournaments since 1981. – Monwabisi Jimlongo
