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Rogers "The Tiger" Mtagwa captured the North American Boxing Federation title July 20 with a split decision over Aldo Valtierra of Mexico. The near-sellout crowd of 1,123 at the New Alhambra, Swanson and Ritner streets, witnessed a close battle as two judges scored it 116-112 for Mtagwa, while the third had 115-113 for Valtierra.
"We got the belt so I can’t complain," Mtagwa’s Manager Joe Parella said.
The Tanzania native who now resides at 20th and Mifflin streets previously held the United States Boxing Association crown from July 2005 through November ’06, when he lost a controversial split decision to Martin Honorio. The victory improves Mtagwa’s mark to 24-11-2 with 17 KO’s.
The pugilist will take a short break from the gym before deciding on a future opponent. Rated No. 5 by the International Boxing Federation, Mtagwa could get the winner of Sept. 15’s IBF title bout between champion Robert Guerrero and Rocky Juarez later this year or early ’08.
"We’re looking to go after a world title," Parella said.
Another possibility would be defending his NABF crown before stepping into the world-title picture. By winning his most recent fight, Mtagwa is guaranteed a spot among the top 15 in the World Boxing Council featherweight rankings.
-By Bill Gelman
