Nyawade gears up for tough fight in Ghana

[PHOTO: COURTESY]

Michael Nyawade is eager to triumph when he steps into the ring against Ghanaian George Ashie in an international Lightweight contest set for December 26 in Accra, Ghana.

“Shaka”, as he is popularly known in local boxing circles, made his professional debut in 2009 and since then, the Administration Police (AP) officer has found wins away from home hard to come by.

In five attempts on foreign land, his only victory was against Ismael Owopla, a bout staged in Kampala, Uganda nine years ago.

He is, however, keen to change the script having prepared for next week’s eight-round fight for the past three months.

“I am currently doing light exercises in order to have the stamina. I have put an end to rigorous training and my concentration is on sparring,” Nyawade told The Standard Sports after a training session at Pumwani Social Hall.

The clash, which incidentally falls on Boxing Day, will mark his maiden appearance in the Lightweight category as he has previously specialised in featherweight and Super featherweight.

“It feels nice since there is minimal dehydration in Lightweight and I feel like I possess more than enough strength,” said Nyawade.

Under his trainer Julius Owino, he has been religiously attending Strength and Conditioning sessions at the Nyayo gymnasium on Saturdays as well as adhered to his diet.

In Ashie, Nyawade will be coming up against a more decorated opponent who boasts of several titles among them the Commonwealth Games Lightweight.

Ashie made his debut in 2003, six years earlier than Nyawade.The Kenyan is, however, unfazed by the challenge that lies ahead.

“I respect him a lot since he is one of the best in his country but I am confident of winning the bout. As a sportsman you must always possess the belief of performing well,” he said.

The fight, which is organized by Box Office Sports Promotions, will be held at the Bukom Boxing Arena.

“The match won’t give me trouble since I have gained massive experience having participated in a lot of matches with both local and foreign opposition,” Nyawade said.

“I would like to thank the AP because they are like family who have supported me in this profession,” concluded Nyawade.