Sport

Motu battling asthma ahead of title defence

08:58 am on 17 August 2023

Mea Motu. Photo: RNZ / Marika Khabazi

IBO super bantamweight boxing champion Mea Motu is battling asthma just 10 days out from her world title defence.

Motu is receiving treatment and her camp is confident she will be fit for the fight with Malawi's Ellen Simwaka at Eventfinda Stadium on August 26.

Spokeswoman Alina Peach says she is working with Drug-Free Sport NZ to ensure Motu gets the exemptions required for the medication prescribed by her doctor.

33-year-old Motu is a proven battler.

She overcame two broken ribs in winning the IBO belt by unanimous decision against Canadian Tania Walters at the Fight for Life on April 27.

-RNZ