Israel sends statement with another KO

TDT | Manama

Email: mail@newsofbahrain.com

Okafor Israel continued his unbeaten start to professional boxing with another explosive finish, knocking out India’s Devendra Mukkar in the first round at the Rise to Glory event in Bengaluru on Saturday.

The Nigerian-born cruiserweight, who represents Bahrain and fights out of Underground Gym, had prepared for six rounds but required only the opening session to improve his professional record to 4-0.

The victory followed his 57-second stoppage of Egypt’s Medhat AlHusiny in Dubai in May.

Acknowledging support

Speaking exclusively to The Daily Tribune, Israel was quick to shift the credit towards those who have backed him.

“I wanna thank ELROI, the God of my journey, my manager Mr. Miller, my family at Underground Gym, and my sponsors Smallgod, Mr. Ebrahim and Mr. Alem for their support and encouragement,” he said.

“They saw what others couldn’t.”

Fight strategy

Despite the swift outcome in India, Israel had entered the contest expecting a much longer night. His plan was to work through the six rounds and put on a show for the crowd, but the complexion of the fight soon changed.

“I wanted to go the distance, to entertain the fans,” he explained. “However, it changed when I got hit on the back of the head and when I figured that the referee gave him more time to recover after the second knockdown.

“I stayed calm, read his reactions and waited for the right opening. Once I saw the opportunity, I stepped in with the combination we had been working on and landed clean.

“From there, I didn’t give him any chance to recover. I trusted my timing and finished the job.”

The fighter also credited his preparations at Underground Gym for helping him arrive ready for the contest.

“My team and I worked a lot on timing, distance, explosive combinations and finishing once the opportunity presented itself,” he said.

“We also focused heavily on staying composed under pressure. Everything came together in the fight, and I was able to execute what we worked on in camp.”

Building momentum

The performance carried added significance after his rapid stoppage in his last appearance, with Israel keen to show he could reproduce that level on his next outing.

“I didn’t want the Dubai victory to be seen as a one-off,” he said. “I wanted to show that I’m consistent, improving and capable of delivering at a high level every time I step into the ring.

“This victory confirms that the hard work is paying off.”

Bengaluru also offered a different experience, with Israel relishing the opportunity to perform in front of a new crowd.

“Fighting in India was different from my previous professional appearances, especially with the crowd and the energy in Bengaluru,” he said.

“The atmosphere was electric, and being able to perform in front of that crowd made the occasion even more special. I really enjoyed every moment of it.”

Cruiserweight ambitions

Israel is now looking to build on his unbeaten start by taking on bigger challenges in the cruiserweight division.

“I’m not focused on who is noticing me,” he said. “I’m focused on improving, staying disciplined and taking on bigger challenges. I want the best opponents in the division.”

Competing internationally also carries particular meaning for Israel as he represents Bahrain.

“Every time I compete internationally, I carry Bahrain and my team with me,” he said.

“Getting another victory while representing the Kingdom, especially on a stage in India, is something I’m very proud of. I’m grateful to everyone who continues to support me and my journey.”

Looking ahead

Attention has already turned to what comes next, with Israel eager to get back in action.

“I’m healthy, motivated and already thinking about the next challenge,” he said.

“I’d like to be back in the ring as soon as the right opportunity comes. I’m targeting bigger events, tougher opponents and opportunities that can take my career to the next level.”