STEPPING up to lightweight division may be Jack Asis’ next move. Or as Asis’ trainer-manager Brendon Smith puts it: “We’re giving it serious consideration.”
It will mean a bid by the IBO (World Boxing Organisation) super-featherweight champion to capture a second world title. And if Asis makes the move to lightweight he could return to the ring as early as April or May.
“That’s the time frame we are looking at and there is a huge possibility it will be here in Toowoomba,” Smith said.
Were Jack to move up to lightweight, his next bout would have to be against a highly ranked opponent for him to earn a chance to bid for another world title.
“We haven’t had any world-rated challengers for Jack’s super-featherweight belt,” Smith said.
“We’ve tried to make things happen. Last year, we were deep in negotiations with Billy Dib, but boxing became irrelevant for Billy with the sudden illness and passing of his wife.
“I’ve also reached out to contenders in Africa, Asia, the UK and USA. However, for one reason or another we haven’t been able to land the big fight.
“We need to look at our options.”
Asis is a big drawcard in Toowoomba and loves fighting there, so his manager believes that the champion’s next bout should be held in Toowoomba.
“It would great if we can make it happen,” Smith said.
When Asis won the IBO world title, it turned into one of world boxing’s fairytale rags-to-riches stories.
“It’s well within reach for another fairytale chapter to be added,” Smith said. “Jack has the talent to be a two-division world champion.”
There is a lot happening in the lightweight ranks and there could be plenty of opportunities for Jack.
“However, we haven’t ruled out remaining at super featherweight, all options are on the table,” Smith said. “We will weigh up our options and make the best decision for Jack and his future.
“It’s a big decision and one we won’t take lightly.”
___________________________
PICTURE
Jack Asis, centre in black, world super-featherweight boxing champion, popular in Toowoomba, Queensland.
About The Author
