By: Ewoenam Kpodo | Voltaonlinegh.com |
Two-time former International Boxing Federation (IBF) world champion and the reigning World Boxing Organisation (WBO) Africa Bantamweight title holder, Joseph “King Kong” Agbeko (35-5, 26KOs) has defended his title against Shabani Hashimu Zuberi of Tanzania to the thrill of fans on Friday night at Aborigines Beach Resort, Keta in the Volta Region.
Agbeko, 39 who received massive support from his home-based fans through loud cheers and war songs with “agbadza” (an Ewe dance) tunes failed to force his opponent, 23 who had fought 18 times, won 15 and lost 3 with five knockouts to his credit, to throw in the towel but fought on to the last round of the bout despite being dealt with heavy punches resulting in cuts and a swollen face.
In the end, the three judges scored the headline bout, 120-107, 120-108 and 120-107 in favour of Joseph Agbeko.
The bout, under the Aborigines Promotion and dubbed, “Clash for Redemption” came off from Friday night and ran into the dawn of Saturday.
It featured many fights including the vacant IBF Africa Middleweight belt contest between Togolese boxer, John “Africa Mike Tyson” Koudeha and Victus Kamevor with the Togolese defeating his opponent in a knockout in the third round.
The night also featured National Super Lightweight contest between Ho-based boxer, Anama “Polo Pala” Dotse and Tackie Annan where the hard-fought bout had Polo Pala giving in at the 11th round.
Also, Emmanuel Martey winner of WBO Africa Super Middleweight belt easily defended his title against his Tanzanian opponent, Ibrahim Maokola in which he stopped Maokola very early into the bout.
The well-attended bout attracted boxing fans from various parts of the country including Accra, Ho, Aflao, Keta and neighbouring Togo as well as officials from Togo and Tanzania and was graced by former President of the Republic, Flt. Lt. Jerry John Rawlings.
Source: www.voltaonlinegh.com