by Ronnie Nathanielsz

 

IBO light flyweight champion Rey Loreto is upset over the cancellation of his rematch former world champion Nkosinathi Joyi of South Africa as a result of what was reported as a massive withdrawal of boxers from a Mamali Promotions fight card at the Mdantsane Indoor Center on Sunday, Manila Time.

 

Journeyman Loreto who won the vacant title with a stunning 3rd round knockout of Joyi in Monte Carlo last February 1 had trained hard and was looking forward to the rematch and a chance to improve his record of 19-13 with 11 knockouts while Joyi who also trained hard and was hoping to avenge his KO loss also couldn’t hide his disappointment.

 

Two other Filipino boxers who were to see action on the same  card were also left high and dry. 22 year old Michael Dasmarinas (18-1, 11 KO’s) was to face Lwandile Sithyatha for the IBO super flyweight title 20 year old while Marvon Bodiongan (11-1-2, 9 KO’s)was to clash with Xolani Mcotheli for the IBO International super featherweight title.

 

Boxing writer Mesuli Zifo of Dispatch Live quoted Mamali Promotions boss Siphatho Handi who said fighters withdrew from the tournament in droves leaving him with no chouce bit to cancel it..

 

Zifo reported that Loreto who opted for the rematch with Joyi instead of facing Luzuko Siyo was “gutted by the tnurn of events” and while the Filipino’s camp was not happy with the cancellation the promotersd explained to them that “it was beyond their control” after sponsors pulled out because of the fighter withdrawals.

 

The fights will reportedly take place on February 28.