Phumelele Cafu to Defend WBO Title in South Africa, No Longer Facing Roman Gonzalez

Phumelele Cafu will defend his WBO title in late May in South Africa, foregoing a match with Roman Gonzalez. The exact details regarding the opponent and date are still pending. Cafu’s successful title defense could pave the way for a possible match against Gonzalez later this year.

Phumelele Cafu, the current WBO junior bantamweight champion, will defend his title in late May in South Africa. Although initial discussions suggested a bout against the renowned Roman ‘Chocolatito’ Gonzalez, these conversations have ceased, leaving Cafu without an opponent at present. While the specific date and opponent for his defense are not yet confirmed, the focus remains on Cafu’s upcoming fight in his home country, a move he embraces following his successful title win overseas.

Cafu, who has an impressive record of 11 wins, 0 losses, and 3 draws, clinched the WBO title with an unexpected victory over Kosei Tanaka in October 2022. This victory disrupted potential plans for a Gonzalez-Tanaka match, creating an opportunity for Gonzalez to challenge Cafu. Despite being open to another international fight, Cafu is now set to defend at home, which adds excitement for local fans.

If Cafu successfully defends his title, there remains the possibility of a future match against Gonzalez later this year in Managua. Meanwhile, it is currently unknown whether Gonzalez will seek another fight or wait for Cafu’s title defense outcome. Gonzalez last fought in July 2022, securing a victory against Rober Barrera and is eager to reclaim his status in boxing after a brief hiatus during the pandemic.

In summary, Phumelele Cafu is preparing for a title defense of his WBO junior bantamweight championship in late May, shifting away from a potential match with Roman Gonzalez. This change allows Cafu to fight in South Africa, which he welcomes. Should Cafu succeed, a future match against Gonzalez may still materialize. The boxing community remains eagerly anticipating the developments in both fighters’ careers.

Original Source: ringmagazine.com