Smoky goes for world title

JOSEPH ‘Smoky’ Jeremia is on the brink of fighting for a world title. He plans to challenge for the vacant World Boxing Federation flyweight division on November 8 in Namibia.

Jeremia, who fights under the stable of Dolph No Limit Boxing Promotions, is set to take on Mexican southpaw Herman Marquez after he was given the green light by the WBF to vie for the title.Jeremia has seven wins from his eight pro fights, while one was declared as a no contest. The more experienced Marques has 25 fights and 21 wins under his belt to date. The Mexican is ranked in the top 20 by the WBF.For this fight, the Namibian needs to raise at least N$500 000 and he has appealed for sponsorships to make it a reality.Two other Namibians, Peter Malakia and Martin Haikali, will vie for the WBF Intercontinental lightweight belt, which was also sanctioned by the world body.According to Dolph No Limit Boxing Promotions, the fight will be held on the same date as Jeremia’s and will serve as the main undercard before the world title fight.The two local boxers will go into another re-match after previously fighting in the pro ranks to improve their records, but this time they will have the chance to take a shot at the continental title.Several other undercards are planned for the event, but the promoters did not give more details as to which local fighters will be in action. Jeremia said although he does not have a lot of experience as a professional fighter, he can rely on his great amateur record of more than 120 fights.’People should not underestimate my professional record. I have worked very hard throughout my career and I know that if I am given such a big chance, I have to grab it with both hands. I have been more than ready for such an opportunity to come my way and I know I won’t disappoint anyone,’ he said. corry@namibian.com