"Black Hammer" Poised for Glory in Junior-Lightwei...

"Black Hammer" Poised for Glory in Junior-Lightweight Rematch Against Adesodun

Gilbert Munetsi

Zim Now Writer

Zimbabwean boxing sensation Ndodana “The Black Hammer” Ncube is set to reaffirm his dominance in the junior-lightweight division as he faces Nigeria’s Michael Adesodun in a highly anticipated rematch at the Warrior Ascent’s international boxing tournament. The eight-round bout will take place at Huddle Park Golf Course in Linksfield, northeast of Johannesburg, on Friday.

Ncube, a 27-year-old seasoned fighter, enters the ring with an impressive record of 10 wins in 18 professional fights, six of those victories coming by knockout. His opponent, the 21-year-old Adesodun, boasts a record of nine wins, with seven stoppages, and a single loss—delivered by none other than Ncube in their August 2024 showdown.

The Zimbabwean champion, known for his aggressive yet tactical style, aims to solidify his standing as a dominant force in the division. His previous victory over Adesodun was a display of skill, resilience, and power, and he now looks to repeat that success on a grand stage.

Adesodun, who is managed in South Africa by Brad Norman, has been granted the opportunity to avenge his defeat and fine-tune his form ahead of the prestigious Riyadh WBC Season Grand Prix tournament in Saudi Arabia this April. He, along with Bheki Maitse and SA-based Argentinian Juan Manuel Albornoz, will be part of a global field competing in the tournament, which features 128 fighters across four weight classes.

Meanwhile, the undercard of the tournament will feature several thrilling matchups, including Albornoz’s lightweight clash against Skhumbuzo Phetela in a four-round bout. Additionally, Zimbabwean fighter Owen Venganayi, based in Cape Town, will face Carl van Blerk in a six-round contest. Venganayi, trained by his father Felix Vengenayi, seeks to make a statement in the competitive South African boxing scene.

Another highlight includes a six-round showdown between Eastern Cape’s Asiphe Ntshili and Saul Hlongwane, promising fans an action-packed night of boxing.

With the main event set to showcase a gripping rematch, all eyes will be on Ncube to see if he can once again triumph over his Nigerian rival and strengthen his reputation as Zimbabwe’s boxing pride. The action kicks off at 6 PM, with fight fans eagerly awaiting a night of high-stakes battles inside the ring.