FUZHOU, Jiangxi Province, May 24 -- China's first World Boxing Association (WBA) champion Xu Can is set to defend his WBA featherweight world title against Shun Kubo from Japan in his hometown of Fuzhou, Jiangxi Province on Sunday. He said here on Friday that he has 80% chance to defend his title.
"I am so delighted to defend my title in my hometown, I am well-prepared and have the faith to keep the golden belt in China," said Xu Can.
Xu turned professional in 2013 and compiled a record of 15-2 before becoming China's first WBA champion, defeating Jesus Rojas by unanimous decision after an action-packed 12 rounds on January 26.
According to WBA rules, Xu has had to stage his mandatory defense in six months after he won the title.
Shun Kubo said he was honored to fight for the golden belt against Xu Can, who is a boxer with a big heart. Xu's M23 teammate, Japanese light flyweight favorite Sho Kimura is to take on Carlos Canizales of Venezuela on Sunday on the undercard.