Michael McKinson is eager to return to the “danger zone” as he prepares to face South African Tulani Mbenge for the vacant IBO world welterweight title on October 19.
The Portsmouth-based welterweight will step into the ring for the first time since his only career loss two years ago against the highly-regarded Vergil Ortiz Jr. Despite the defeat, McKinson left a lasting impression and has been eager for a top-tier challenge ever since.
“This is the opportunity I’ve been waiting for over the past couple of years,” said McKinson, who boasts a record of 26 wins. “Headlining in America was a high point, and Mbenge is a world-class fighter. This is the biggest fight of my career, aside from Ortiz, and I’m fully prepared—physically and mentally.”
Mbenge, 33, holds a record of 20 wins, including 15 knockouts, with just two losses by decision.
Since the Ortiz bout, McKinson has secured four consecutive wins, including two by technical knockout. His victories came in Bournemouth and Rome, although he admits the competition didn’t match his ambitions.
“It was challenging to go from headlining in America to fighting lesser-known opponents on YouTube streams,” McKinson reflected. “But now, I’m back where I belong—facing a tough opponent who many doubt I can beat. This is where I’ll show my best, and I’m more confident than ever.”
McKinson’s clash with Mbenge will feature on the undercard of Adam Azim’s light-welterweight bout against Ohara Davies at London’s Copper Box Arena on October 19.
