TULSA, OK – Former world title challenger Zahir Raheem is not looking past Ali Funeka, his foe in the upcoming IBF world lightweight title elimination bout in East London, South Africa.
“Contrary to some published reports, Zahir has the utmost respect for Funeka and knows that the July 5th bout will be one of his toughest,” said Bobby Dobbs, matchmaker for promoter Tony Holden, Raheem’s promoter. “He has never criticized Funeka and it is his dream to visit Africa. He is looking forward to making new fans there.”
In addition, Dobbs, who is handling the coordination of the event for Raheem and Holden Productions, has refuted reports that the camp has been uncooperative with regards to accommodations in East London.
“Due to this fight being the result of a purse big, promoter Branco Milenkovic was not obligated to pay for rooms or travel, however he graciously provided 2 airline tickets and accommodations for 2 people for 3 nights,” said Dobbs. “We accepted his generous offer, but we also needed to book more rooms and nights for the rest of the camp. The hotel we are staying at is not lavish by any stretch and the room rate is lower than the hotel originally proposed by Branco.”
Raheem, 29-2, 17 KO’s, is a former United States Olympian and has also held the NABA & WBC International championship belts. He is coming off a sensational first round knockout of tough contender Ricardo Dominguez on January 4th. (PR)
