HARARE - Zimbabwean boxer, Tineyi Mharidzo, defeated South African former champion, Michael Schultz, to clinch the vacant WBO Africa Interim middleweight title on November 20 at the Wembley indoor arena in Johannesburg.Victorious in 16 fights with 14 wins and two draws, Schultz was tipped to sail through Mharidzo and stretch his unbeaten record, his third fight since coming out of an 11-year retirement, but the gifted and promising star shocked a capacity crowd to knock-out his opponent in the first round of the scheduled 12-round bout.
After trading a few light jabs, Mharidzo packed a heavy right cross and Schultz failed to duck it, catching the blow on his left cheek. The shot made him dizzy, staggering and tumbling onto the floor instantly just beyond 87 seconds. He remained still for a while and only tried to move midway through the referees count, but he completely lost balance and surrendered, sending shock waves through the South African boxing fraternity.
I am not afraid of anybody, bring another fight anytime, or even tomorrow, said Mharidzo.
Schultz left the ring in quiet disbelief after the winner was declared, loudly booed by some fans as he returned to his dressing room. His trainer, Nick Durandt, who had been exuberant prior to the fight, declined to comment.
Post published in: Zimbabwe Sports News