TWENTY-YEAR-OLD lightweight starlet Devin Haney is aiming to improve his record to 21-0 when he fights fellow unbeaten Xolisani Ndongeni in Shreveport, Louisiana on Friday January 11.
Last time out in September, the Las Vegas-based Californian scored a career-best win over former three-time world title challenger Juan Carlos Burgos. He intends to pick up where he left off when he meets Ndongeni.
On his training camp
“Training camp has been fantastic. I always start in Las Vegas for the first two weeks. I then went to the Bay Area to train at the SNAC facility with Victor Conte for four weeks. I did a lot of rounds of sparring with Mario Barrios, among others, at Virgil Hunter’s gym as well. Right now, I’m back in Las Vegas with my strength and conditioning coach. We are working hard, and I’ll be at my best when I step into the ring on January 11.”
On facing Ndongeni
“I know fighters from Africa always come to fight. Xolisani Ndongeni is no different. He’s very experienced and undefeated. Ndongeni has gone 12 rounds many times in his career. These are the type of fights I need to win impressively. I’m always looking to improve. Beating the tough South African will get me one step closer to a world title shot.”
On making his third appearance on ShoBox
“Fighting on Showtime’s ShoBox series has been amazing for my career. This is my third appearance on the series. It feels great to have a home to showcase my talent. Ndongeni will bring out the best in me. I’m ready to graduate to Showtime Championship Boxing.”
On when he thinks he’ll be ready for a world title shot
“I’ve climbed the rankings with good wins against Mason Menard and Juan Carlos Burgos. I’m rated in the top 10 by the WBA, WBC and IBF. I’m focused on Ndongeni, and January 11 is my time to shine.”
