By: Hans Themistode
Ilunga Makabu was initially surprised when it was revealed that current super-middleweight champion Canelo Alvarez would challenge him for the WBC cruiserweight crown.
Although it was a surprise, Makabu welcomed a possible duel against the many-pounder star with open arms. However, before Makabu can officially entertain their wits, Makabu first needs to run business against Thabiso Mchunu.
Seven years ago, Makabu decisively stopped Mchunu in the penultimate round. This time, however, Makabu found his foe much more tenacious.
In front of a rather sparse crowd at the Packard Music Hall in Warren, Ohio, Makabu strode confidently into the ring. Although the two touched their gloves before releasing their hands to fly, absolutely no love was lost once the opening bell rang.
In the opening round, Makabu managed to capture the center of the ring. He swung his giant right hand more times than never, hitting nothing but the air. Mchunu stood his ground and waited patiently for his man to make a mistake. His patience will pay off in the second, when Mchunu lowers his right arm aching for the time being forcing Makabu to take a step back.
Despite being visibly stunned, Makabu gathered his senses and began to move forward. He repeatedly tries to cut off the ring to force Mchunu to exchange the heavy leather. However, despite his aggressive game plan, Mchunu refuses to engage in a gunfight. With the world champion right in front of him, Mchunu began to maneuver the champion’s body to try and reduce his speed.
Mchunu’s persistent attack to the midfield begins to pay off at the midpoint of the sixth phase. Although Makabu continued to move forward, his movements became evidently difficult.
As the action begins to slow down, Mchunu begins to rampage at the end of their duel. While he appeared to be a more refreshing fighter, his attempt to become world champion ended without a raise of hands.
Although Nathan Palmer ended up scoring in Mchunu’s favor, 115-113, he was overtaken by Jamie Garayua, who scored 116-112 in favor of Makabu, as well as Steve Weisfeld, who also scored 115-113 for Makabu.
