Tiger to fight Zambia’s Zulu

HEAVYWEIGHT boxer Simasiku ‘Tiger’ Matengu has accepted the challenge to fight Zambia’s Francis Zulu on July 29.

The non-title eight-rounder is set for the New Government Complex main hall in Lusaka.This will be the Namibian’s first fight abroad and only the third overall in his professional career. The action-starved 35-year-old Matengu said he only received the invite about two weeks ago. His opponent was set for an IBF Continental Africa heavyweight title showdown against Tanzania’s Awadh Tamim on the same day, but that fight fell through.’I’m going to Zambia on the 26th [of July]. It was a bit short notice but it’s a good opportunity for me to fight outside the country,’ he said. ‘I’ve been training very hard to get into good shape for the fight.’Matengu has boxed a total of eight rounds to date which included losing his first fight in 2010 before winning for the first time when he beat compatriot Toivo Kamati at the end of July last year. In contrast, Zulu (38) is an experienced fighter with 21 fights under his belt. Eight of his 16 victories have come by way of knock out, while he has lost three and drawn one. Zulu’s last defeat came in 2007 and is currently on an unbeaten streak of four fights. ‘I know he’s more experienced than me but I’m not scared. Even if its my first international fight away from home. I’ll enter the ring to give my best.’