A local boxer who turned professional last year, Seani Morite, is optimistic about defeating Carleigh Swart when the two meet in an international boxing tournament at Huddle Park, Linksfield, on 28 February.
Morite has been competing in the bantamweight division but has now moved to super bantamweight because of weight problems.
Speaking to the Limpopo Mirror while training at the Thohoyandou Indoor Sports Centre on Monday morning, she expressed confidence in winning the bout. "I always had to lose weight to fight in the bantamweight division, while I am naturally heavier. Now that I have moved to super bantamweight, I am confident of doing well," she said.
When asked about her role models in boxing, she mentioned American champion Floyd Mayweather and former local national champion Raider Muleba.
She aims to become the second national female champion after Muleba. "What makes me more confident of winning the national championship is that I always spar with male boxers. They hit harder, but I give them a hard time," she said.
Her trainer and manager, John "Smoking Joe" Nemakonde, agreed about her prospects. "She has speed, punching power, and punches accurately. She is ready for a war with Carleigh Swart in Gauteng," he said.