Moloney Brothers confirm next date, interest in World Boxing Super Series
UNDEFEATED sensations Andrew and Jason Moloney return to the ring for their second outing of 2018.
Andrew Moloney defends his WBA Oceania super flyweight bauble for the third time in as many fights against Filipino livewire Richard Claveras (18-3, 15 KOs). The fight will be at Malvern Town Hall on May 19th.
“It’s an honour for me to represent the WBA,” said Moloney in a press release issued by his management. “They have shown great support of me so I will continue to show my appreciation and continue defending their title.”
This will be the eighth WBA regional title fight for the former Commonwealth Games gold medallist – who is sitting at number six in their respective ratings – and is knocking on the door for the coveted WBA super flyweight championship held by Englishman Kal Yafai.
“This is the fight I want. I have watched a lot of Yafai’s fights and I truly believe I can beat him and achieve my dream of becoming world champion. All I see is me winning the fight and having that world title belt around my waist. Yafai is a good fighter, he is a world champion for a reason but I believe I have what it takes to beat him.”
Claveras is no stranger to traveling, having lost a controversial split decision for the regarded OPBF title to Keisuke Nakayama at Korakeun Hall in Japan. The well-travelled Filipino also challenged for the WBC light flyweight title against Mexican Pedro Guevara. The pedigree of Claveras cannot be questioned and Moloney will need to be at the top of his game.
“I have watched a few of Claveras’ fights now,” he added. “I can see that he is a strong fighter and know that he is going to come here to fight. He has a come forward style and let’s his hands go, so I’m sure the fans will be in for a real treat. I am going to have to be switched on at all times during this fight and avoid getting hit.”
Undefeated bantamweight Jason Moloney (16-0, 13 KOs) gears up for the biggest fight of his career as he defends his WBA Oceania strap against highly regarded Japanese veteran Kohei Kono (33-11-1, 14 KOs).
Moloney defends his bantamweight regional bauble for the second time, having become the first to halt former world title challenger Immanuel Naidjala in his last appearance. The 27-year-old is knocking on the door of an eventual world title tilt, but knows that a win over the experienced Kono is a required step to the next level.
“Kono is a two-time world champion and will definitely be the toughest opponent that I have faced,” added Jason. “He has only been stopped once in his career – which was against Naoya Inoue – which tells me he is also very durable. I think the aggressive, come forward style which Kono brings will make for a very exciting fight,”
The winner will edge closer to WBA super champion Ryan Burnett who fought on the Joshua-Parker mega card. According to reports, Burnett and Inoue are confirmed entrants for the next World Boxing Super Series, with the winner between Moloney and Kono well-placed for entry into the tournament.
Words: Press Release
Photo: Provided