Picture: THINKSTOCK
Picture: THINKSTOCK

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AUSTRALIA-based boxer and practising lawyer Lovemore Ndou makes a comeback against Filipino Dan Nazareno Junior in what could be his swansong after 24 years in boxing.

The legal eagle, who has lived in Australia since 1995, made the announcement on Sunday.

Speaking from his home in New South Wales, the accomplished former IBF junior welterweight and IBO welterweight holder said: "I can confirm that I will be fighting Dan Nazareno Junior in a nontitle 10-rounder on a show promoted by Skylon Promotions of my dear friend Promise Moyo on July 1."

Moyo, who staged an IBF African title fight between vanquished Phillip Ndou and newly crowned champion Ntuthuko Memela at Kibler Park Recreation Centre recently, said: "I think I will stage the fight at Birchwood Hotel in Benoni. I have already received Nazareno’s passport and that of his coach, which is an indication that, indeed, they will be coming.

"There is a likelihood that Phillip Ndou and Malcolm Klassen will feature in undercard bouts. I will also make sure that up-and-coming boxers who have less than 10 fights feature in the programme."

Lovemore last fought in SA in 2010 when he beat former top Olympian Bongani Mwelase for the IBO strap. He said it could also be his last fight.

"If I’m gonna have my last fight, it has to be in SA. This is where I started my career and this is where I intend to end it. I am not making a comeback. I was never gone. I just took a three-year break from boxing to focus on my legal career and I have since established Lovemore Lawyers, which is a law firm in Sydney," said Ndou.

He said he had, however, maintained a healthy lifestyle and stayed fit while he was away.

"People can expect a great fight. The rest from ring activity has also done my body well. I have put on a lot of muscle as well and feel a lot stronger. I am already hurting sparring partners in the gym," the 44-year-old said.

The self-exiled Ndou boasts 41 wins (31 knockouts), 13 losses and two draws, while Nazareno Junior — who last fought last April, when he was defeated by former multiple world champion from Thailand Sirimongkol Singwancha (83 wins, two losses) — has 13 losses in 34 boxing bouts.