No sleepless nights for KwaZulu-Natal's national lightweight champion Irvin Buhlalu.
That's the word from the in-training boxer, who on Monday will know who his first opponent will be in his opening defence of his crown.
Buhlalu, who won the South African title in his fifth attempt against Sikhulile Sidzumo in Port Elizabeth in July, said his training is going well and he cannot wait to fight in front of his home fans.
"I am not all worried about who I will be fighting, as now that I am the champ, I have the belief that I will beat anyone placed in front of me.
"After all, if one is champion, one has to face all challengers, and I will, as I am not one to duck opponents.
"My faith tells me what will be, will be - so I am looking forward to finding out who I will be facing in my mandatory defence."
Buhlalu's trainer Bongani Shezi was also in the dark on the opponent.
"One thing I do know is that once our first foe is identified, the training will intensify, as we target certain areas.''
Boxing South Africa (BSA) PRO Loyiso Mtya said three nominations were needed before a decision would be taken on who Buhlalu would be facing in his first title defence.
"One nomination has been received, but the other two should be in by Monday, and BSA will be in a position to reveal who Buhlalu will be fighting.''
- On Friday night Mpush Makambi defends his SA middleweight title against Emmanuel Duma.
The tournament is Howard Goldberg's second as a promoter.
The fight will be shown live on SABC2 - Blow by Blow Uncut.
- BSA have advised that people wanting to become professional boxers can be tested on Saturday, August 27 at Norman Hlabane's Gym at Johannesburg Stadium, Doornfontein from 10am.
Pro-boxers who were active in 2004, but who
missed the April licensing period this year do not have to attend the sparring, they can apply directly to BSA for a licence between September 1-30.
For more details phone local BSA official Les Andreasen at (031) 702 7463.