As South Africa brace for one of the greatest boxing showpiece in 2025 when the country’s WBO Junior Bamtamweight champion Phumelela “The Truth” challenges Jesse “Bam” Rodriguez for the latter’s WBC, WBO and Ring Magazine’s Super Flyweight titles in Frisco, Texas on July 19, Cafu’s trainer Collin Nathan cherishes the tag of an underdog as the country anticipates a gruelling contest.
“The thing is, on paper, people don’t give us a chance. I mean, I was reading some of the American comments, like, people are just so dismissive of Pumelela, you know? And, like I’ve said to you in previous interviews, like, I love being in this position because we’re not supposed to do it, and when we do it, then what? So, obviously, the plan for us now is to focus on getting him in the best possible shape, managing his weight, the game plans intact, and then, obviously, executing everything on fight night. The thing is, is that this is boxing, and you know that, and when the odds are down, I produce results” said Nathan, while speaking to SA Boxing Talk.
I’ve been in this position before, and I’m really confident that we can do it, and I love being in this position. I prefer being in this position than, and I know the South African fans are gonna hate me for this, but rather that than doing a homecoming because, you know, it’s not like you get overconfident, but there’s an expectation, and there’s not a lot of expectation on us for this fight, but I know when he gets in the ring, he’ll be ready to win. He’ll be emotionally, physically, and mentally just ready to win and produce the upset, added Nathan.