Achieng-Chisale: Commonwealth Light welter title fight in limbo

Sarah Achieng during training ahead of her Commonwealth light-welterweight title bout against Ruth Chisale of Malawi. [Courtesy]

Today’s title fight pitting Universal Boxing Organization (UBO) Inter-Continental female Lightweight champion Sarah Achieng against Ruth Chisale of Malawi is hanging in the balance. 

This is after the Malawian failed to jet into the country in time for the ten round title bout that has been postponed by twice the Kenyans Professional Boxing Commission (KPBC) due to Covid-19 pandemic and lack of sponsorship.

“I’m not sure if we will fight, we haven’t heard anything from Chisale,” a frustrated Achieng told Standard Sports yesterday evening.

“I don’t know what’s happening, even my sponsors have not talked to me.”

Achieng who is commonly known as ‘Angel of War’ within the boxing circles said she was more than ready for the bout which was supposed to be held at Charter Hall, Nairobi today.

“I’m more than fit, I have done my home work for the last three months. Another postponement will give me pressure,” she said.

When contacted, KPBC President Reuben Ndolo said Chisale was having problems with the Covid-19 travelling protocol in her country, but assured that the Malawian will be available for the crunch tie.

Chisale boasts of an imposing record of ten wins with six knockouts.

“I had promised my fans that the vacant belt was going to remain at home, the decision still stands,” Achieng said.

The fighter has been upping her training at the dusty Kariobangi Social Hall Gym.

Last Wednesday, betting firm 22Bet came on board to support Achieng’s bid for glory in the fight.

During her preparations for the fight, Achieng worked on her reflexes, focus and mental toughness.

“My coach and I worked on ducking the punches and my move-outs are now excellent.

“We also worked on our attacks, in-close-fight techniques, sparring, speed-work and endurance,” she said.

Achieng firmly believe the fight was hers to lose as Chisale has swapped weights from Middle to Light welterweight, according to the boxer’s records.

Achieng insisted she felt no pressure at all to deliver the victory at home.

The decorated Achieng, who turned professional on August 9 2008, is a former East and Central African Professional Boxing Federation Female Featherweight champion, a crown she won on September 1 2012 and defended it three months later.