Celebrated Malawian boxer Hannock Phiri on Saturday night suffered a third-round technical knockout defeat to Jakhongir Rasulov from Uzbekistan in a World Boxing Council welterweight bout in Uzbekistan.

Until  Saturday, the 24-year-old, nicknamed ‘The Hardknocker’,  had not suffered defeat in three years.

In an interview yesterday, Phiri conceded that his 26-year-old opponent was too good for him.

“I faced a good opponent and I had no choice but to give up since I have another bout coming up next month,” he said.

Local boxing promoter Craig Rousseau said while  Phiri is a good boxer, he felt poor preparations let him down.

He said: “The boy is good, but fighting at that level needs serious preparations, proper diet and strong sparring which he missed.

Phiri: I faced a good opponent

“He is a strong boy, but that is not enough in boxing, especially when you want to climb the ladder and vie for such big belts because you face real good boxers.”

On his part, retired boxer Wilson ‘Shasha’ Masamba said Phiri needs to improve on his fighting style.

“We did not see much from him in today’s bout. He needs to improve on his approach. He usually relies on strength and not technics and skills,” he said.

India- based boxing trainer Timonthy Sixpence said he did not see a problem with Phiri apart from being too hasty and letting his guard down.

He said: “It seemed like he was desperate to win on TKO and I sent a message to his corner to take it easy because he appeared worn out, having used most of his energy in the first round.

“Otherwise, it was a good bout and great experience for him. Hoping to see him get back on his feet soon.”

Phiri’s next bout is against his South Africa-based compatriot  Dennis Mwale scheduled for April 28 at Kamuzu University of Health Sciences Sports Complex in Blantyre.

Phiri travelled to to Uzbekistan on Monday alongside trainer Brian Mwando and matchmaker Stephen Mawenzi Msiska.

Rasulov has four straight knockout wins while Phiri has six victories, two defeats and a draw.

Malawi Professional Boxing Control Board director of research and communication Gibson Chisale said despite the loss, Phiri still has a bright future .

“We expected good results, but sadly he  lost. Still more, he should not lose focus. He is young and he can do better in his next bouts,” he said.

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