BOXING: Muller, Lerena head for a cracking rematch

Lerena, who lost via unanimous decision in the reverse bout between the two last November, conceded at the Christmas Cracker announcement last Wednesday at Emperors Palace that Muller outboxed him but he would be returning as a better opponent.

Asked how he’s going to defeat Muller the second time around, Lerena responded: “We’re in for a tough fight but my team and I have been working hard in the gym and I’m going to bring my full skills set,” said the former jockey and rugby player.

Trainer, Peter Smith confidently echoed Lerena’s views.

“We’ve got Johnny’s number, he’s a good fighter and Harold Volbrecht is the best trainer but we’re confident of the win.”

The stakes are sure set to be high as it was also confirmed that Lerena’s SA cruiserweight title, in addition to the WBA Pan-Africa belt, will be on the line.

With his trainer Volbrecht absent from the announcement, Muller, coming off a loss in his last fight, did his own talking, albeit briefly, saying he would win again because he’s more desperate for victory.

In another stand-out clash on the bill, the undefeated Paul Kamanga will square-off against Roman Zhailaouv for the WBA Pan-Africa title in their welterweight fight and the former’s trainer, Anton Gilmore, had no shadow of doubt that Kamanga would retain his undefeated record with a dig at Zhailaouv.

“Roman is from Kazakhstan, but so is Borat, and I don’t see Borat giving Paul a problem.”

Kamanga, who boasts 17 wins, emphasised his camp’s conviction of a win.

“I’m a bit more confident than he is, I come from a win and he’ll be coming from a loss,” explained the 22-year-old.

“I’m still training hard but we have this one in the bag.”

The undercard features fan favourite Deejay Kriel and Roman’s younger brother Dair Zhailaouv, who will be making his debut. – @SabeloBoksburg