Tanzania: Matumla Prepares for Mwakyembe Test

The Citizen (Dar es Salaam)

Majuto Omary

16 June 2011

Dar Es Salaam — Veteran boxer Rashid “Snake Man” Matumla will climb into the ring against red-hot Benson Mwakyembe on August 8.Organiser of the bout Yohana Mwaisunga said preparations for the fight, which would be held at Majimaji Stadium, Ruvuma, were on course.

“We’ve already struck a deal with the boxers and everything is going according to plan,” he said.

According to Mwaisunga, the non-title bout is part of their endeavours to promote the sport in the southern regions.

The duo last met in 2009 at DDC Mlimani Park and no boxer claimed the bragging rights after fighting to a draw (97-97, 96-96, 98-98).Matumla, one of the best boxers in the 1990s, faces a tall order to floor Mwakyembe who boasts an impressive record lately. The Ruvuma-born pugilist took on Ugandan Charles Kakande last month in the non-title light middleweight fight and managed to record a knockout victory.

Speaking to The Citizen yesterday, Matumla said: “I’m in a good shape, my trainers are doing everything possible to keep me fit.”Mwakyembe is a good boxer and still young, but I’m confident that my wide experience will help me carry the day,” the ageless fighter said.

Mwakyembe, who made a dramatic return to professional boxing recently after a six-year absence, also hopes to build on his win over the Ugandan.

AllAfrica – All the Time