Malawi ‘Golden Boy’ Chilemba ‘disappointed’ but says Bellew not a better fighter
South Africa based Malawian boxer Isaac Chilemba has said Tony Bellew is not better than him despite losing on unanimous points decision in the WBC light-heavyweight title eliminator held at O2 Arena in London.
Two judges scored the bout 116-112 and the third judge 117-112 to Bellew to deny the Malawian boxing icon a shot at the WBC title.
Writing on his Facebook page after arriving in South Africa from England on Tuesday, Chilemba said he was disappointed to lose because he was not in good mood.
But the Malawian congratulated his opponent for winning to become a mandatory challenger to Chad Dawson or Adonis Stevenson, who meet next month.
“Back in South Africa, still feeling very disappointed. Losing is one thing but losing the way I did hurts more. Bellew isn’t a better fighter than me (well done to him for winning). I was just off on the night,” Chilemba said.
The soft-spoken boxer promised to get back to his feet.
“The Golden Boy is not finished yet, I will be back stronger and more determined than ever,” he said.
He also saluted those who have made it possible to fight in London in the WBC eliminator.
“Special thanks to my manager Jodi and Trainer Buddy. To all those who travelled to the UK for the fight, thank you, thank you, thank you,” he said.
“Thank you to everyone for their incredible support and well wishes, they are all noticed and appreciated.”
His longtime trainer Andson Kazembe also said the Malawian would have another chance.
“He lost fighting. He showed character. He should be given another chance. No doubt…but will hear more when we meet,” Kazembe said.
Boxing pundits in UK also described his loss as courageous performance despite the unanimous points-decision loss.
His record after the loss stands at 20 wins, two draws and two losses after turning professional in South Africa in 2005.
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