Second world title fight finalised for big Belfast bill
The second world title fight on the big BT Sport bill in Belfast next month has been finalised.
Jamie Conlan challenges IBF super flyweight champion Jerwin Ancajas on the ‘Frampton Reborn’ bill at the SSE Odyssey Arena on Saturday November 18th which sees Carl Frampton return to Belfast after almost three years on the road.
The card was announced as to also be featuring a first WBO title defence for bantamweight champion Zolani Tete [25(20)-3(1)] and an opponent has this afternoon been confirmed.
In an all-South Africa battle, Tete will defend against countryman Siboniso Gonya [11(5)-1(0)].
Ranked #3 with the WBO, Gonya won the Inter-Continental rankings belt back in April, dethroning Namibian Immanuel Naidjala. Aside from this fight in neighbouring Namibia, the 25 year old has never fought outside the Rainbow Nation.
‘Last Born’ Tete won the Interim belt back in April following a dominant win over Arthur Villanueva, and was upgraded to outright champion the following day.
“I’m delighted to be making the first defence of my World Title in Belfast,” said Tete
“He is a good fighter and I am looking forward to testing myself against him. He is a fellow South African but there are no friends inside the ring. I hope he will put up a good fight but I will be heading back to South Africa with my belt around my waist.”
“I have wanted this fight badly for some time and I am delighted that I finally have the chance to test myself against a fighter of Tete’s calibre,” said Gonya. “He is a two-weight World Champion and one of the most avoided fighters in the World.
“Whilst other fighters have avoided him, I am relishing the opportunity to take his World Title from him. The odds will be stacked in his favour but I am a warrior and this is my moment. I believe it is my destiny to win a World Title.”
The card next month also features a WBO European title defence for Paddy Barnes, and an all-Irish rematch between Deco Geraghty and Jono Carroll, with more to be announced.
Tickets go on sale tomorrow at noon.