Fana unfazed by underdog role

By Mike Walters

06/04/2005

Fana unfazed by underdog role

On April 9, 2005, Marco Antonio Barrera on will defend the WBC super featherweight title against unheralded challenger Mzonke Fana, rated #1 by the WBC and #12 by Boxingtalk.  This will be Fana's first fight in the United States and only his second fight outside of his native South Africa. For most boxing fans, this will be there first chance to see Fana in action unless you have watched Boxingtalk's broadcast of his fight with Randy Suico. Fana has a record of 22-2, 8 KOs and has gone undefeated over the last five years. With fight night rapidly approaching, Fana says he is not affected by the hype.  "It doesn't bother that I am coming to this fight as a underdog...I have been working very hard for this fight and  I am ready for this fight." When asked how he plans to beat Marco, Fana responded, "If he wants to box, we'll box.  If he wants to fight, we'll fight." With regards to what advantage Fana brings to the fight, he confidently answered, "I come in with major speed and the punching power will be alright." When asked about being the bigger man in the El Paso, Texas ring Saturday, Fana said, "It will be much better for me. This is a big fight for me, my country South Africa and the whole continent of Africa."