ALI Nuumbembe won’t show his next opponent any Christmas spirit when they meet at Wigan’s Robin Park Centre on Saturday night.
The genial Namibian faces Craig Watson (11-1) in the first defence of the Commonwealth welterweight title he snatched from Kevin Anderson in February, and plans to ruin the festive season for the Boltonian.
Watson is a solid fighter with a good chin. He is young, has been very active and really fancies his chances.
But the Silent Assassin, now based in Glossop, has prepared well and says he is ready for anything.
“Training’s gone very well, I’m ready for this,” says Nuumbembe, whose last fight was cancelled due to the sad passing of his father.
“I’m putting the final touches to my preparations and am ready to go 12 rounds. He’s a tough kid, he comes to fight, but I'm prepared to go the whole way. We’ll see if he goes the 12 (rounds). It might not last that long, I might take him out.”
Nuumbembe has amassed an impressive 18-2 record, his only losses coming to fellow countryman Bethuel Ushona, and the talented Ajose Olusegun, having taking on the latter at just a few days notice.
Watson does pose a threat - his points win over domestic foe Michael Lomax was hugely impressive and recent appearances on Sky have improved the southpaw’s stock.
He is not the mandatory for the title but fits the bill and appeals more to the television giant’s British audience.
Whatever the opponent, Nuumbembe know he can not afford to slip up if he is to further his career.
“The mandatory for this title is Ghanaian, and I will probably face him next should I get past Watson, which I will,” says Ali.
“This defence is more for the TV side of things, but he is a good fighter.”
The loss of his beloved father has only served to toughen Nuumbembe’s resolve and drive him forward. He promises to win victory for him this weekend.
“He would have wanted me to fight, he would be pushing me to do this.
“I’ve been wanting to get back in the ring and this is the right time. I’m 29 now and if I want to get a shot at a world title I have to act fast.
“I plan to do this as soon as I can, and I’ll do it for the many people who’ve supported me.
“I would like to thank them all, I hope they will be there on Saturday and wish everyone a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.”
Big thanks to Martin Williams for this.
