Excitement builds for big bouts

TICKETS may have sold out but that hasn’t stopped the hype train from pulling into Hargraves Mall on Saturday ahead of mid-March’s Triple Header boxing event.

In a subdued and even respectful display, veteran Anthony Mundine and the man they call ‘Pretty Boy’ – Michael Zerafa – spoke candidly before their midweight clash at Bendigo Stadium on 13 March.

Sam La Bruna is a promoter, Zerafa’s manager and also trains three of the fighters on the undercard.

“It’s very exciting to be back in Bendigo,” he said. “I was involved in the Horne/Zerafa fight up here, so happy to be back.

“There’s a couple of good fights on the card, apart from Zerafa and Mundine, so it’s very exciting.

“There’s some great Australian match fights. These fighters usually fight internationally but because we can’t go anywhere at the moment they are here.”

In what may be his last professional bout, Mundine said going up against Zerafa was about him choosing his own path.

“I feel good,” he said. “Relaxed.

“For me it’s about going out on my terms. I want to go face a young lion. Zerafa, I know he’s got a lot of talent and ability. I didn’t want to face some easy beat. I want to test myself.”

Nearly 17 years Mundine’s junior, Zerafa said stepping up to the veteran was a childhood dream come true, however when the bell rings, all that will take a back seat.

“I’m excited,” he said. “Can’t wait to get in, I wish it was tonight. It’s a fight I’ve wanted for 15 years and it can’t come sooner.

“Mundine, I have huge respect for him, I’ve idolised him, I’m probably in the position I am because of him.

“To share the ring with him is a great honour but come fight night there’s no friends. For me he’s just another number, but outside the ring he’s a phenomenal athlete.”

Along with the Mundine v Zerafa main event, the Triple Header also has a significant nine fight undercard with titles on the line.

Set to step into the ring are a number of Indigenous fighters, and Mundine said he relishes the opportunity to be a role model and set a tone for up and comers.

“I love inspiring my people and try and give them a boost to help them make the right decisions in their life,” he said.

“Aboriginal People have unbelievable talent, they are gifted. I want them to make the most of their gifts.

“I engage with them and try and inspire them, not just through words but through actions.”

The Triple Header event is set for Bendigo Stadium on Saturday, 13 March from 5pm. While tickets have sold out organisers are offering a live streaming package for $29.95 with access via mundine.tv or zerafa.tv.