George Ashie gears up for WBO Interim title

Ghana's lightweight contender, George Ashie, is anticipating a career-defining clash with South Africa's Michael Mokoena when they go toe to toe for the WBO Interim Africa title later this year.

Ashie, alias Red Tiger, said he was focused on defeating his opponent to enable him to enter the WBO ranking in a bid to revive his career.

Having been inactive for five months since knocking out Tanzania's Max Moshi last October at the Bukom Boxing Arena in Accra, Ashie believes a win over Mokoena (11-1, 7 KOs) could propel him to greatness in the coming years.

In an interview with the Graphic Sports, the Ghanaian was hopeful of a win over the hard-hitting South African, who on the other hand would be up for the test.

"This fight will be a career-defining clash for me because I want to win the belt as well as to commence ranking with the WBO and I believe this is the opportunity.

"I am focused on this fight and I am keen on winning in order to stand a chance of earning greater fights in the coming years. This will propel me to greatness in the WBO lightweight division," he added.

Ashie (27-4-1, 20 KOs) was tipped for greatness after making his debut in 2003 but a majority decision loss to rival Emmanuel "Gameboy" Tagoe in a fierce fight in 2012 halted his development.

He has been facing some managerial issues over the years which also blighted his bright career which made him one of the hottest pugilists in the country.