World title contenders Jason and Andrew Moloney are looking to move one step closer to world title shots when they take on ranked contenders on the undercard of the undisputed lightweight title fight between Devin Haney and George Kambosos Jr at Rob Laver Arena in Melbourne, Australia on Sunday.
Jason Moloney 24-2 (19) will take on WBC number two Nawaphon Kaikanha 56-1-1 (46) while Andrew Moloney 24-2 (16) will face two-time world title challenger and WBO number two Norbelto Jimenez 31-9-6 (16). Jason is ranked number one by both the WBC and the WBO, while Andrew is ranked number four by the WBO.
“He has a very impressive record,” Jason said. “You don’t become ranked as number two in the world without being a very good fighter. I’ve prepared for a very tough fight. He’s obviously had his whole career in Thailand. He’s been very successful over there. But I feel that he’s been a big fish in a small pond. I plan to welcome him into the world stage and show him the next level in this sport.
“This is my dream, to fight for a world title and become world champion. And this is the final hurdle. I’ve been working extremely hard. I’m very motivated to go out there and win this fight. I’ll do whatever takes. You saw a great performance last time and this time will be even better.”
“This is my first time fighting as a professional outside of Thailand,” Kaikanha said. “I’m very excited. At the same time, I feel honored that I’ve gotten the chance to fight in Australia in this beautiful country. It’s a very hospitable country and I’m happy to be here.
“All those 46 knockouts were not a product of luck. I worked hard for it. I trained hard for it. It’s the same for this fight. I have been training really hard for this fight.”
“This is the perfect fight for me right now,” Andrew said. “I’ve had a very busy 14 months. This is my fifth fight in 14 months. I’ve worked my way up the rankings. And, Norbelto is ranked at number two in the world, and I feel like this is the perfect fight for me. I’m going to take his ranking. I’m going to put on the best performance of my career this Sunday and earn myself the opportunity to fight for a world title next.”
“I have had two world title opportunities,” Jimenez said. “I’m looking forward to this third opportunity. I have seen Moloney fight. I know him very well. I have a good record, thanks to God and to my manager, Belgica Peña, president of Shuan Boxing, and we’re coming for more.”
