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EUROPE loves Vikapita ‘The Beastmaster’ Meroro, which is why he keeps going back, says his trainer Immanuel Moses.

The duo journeyed to Russia yesterday ahead of Meroro’s clash with former IBO light-heavyweight title holder Umar Salamov (22-2) in Moscow on Saturday.

Now in the twilight of his career, Meroro’s chances of victory in the cruiserweight fight are slim, given recent uninspiring results and Salamov’s fearsome pedigree.

Moses said the 37-year-old former African champion (30-13) is far from finished despite a run of just two wins in his last 11 fights, dating back to 2015.

Continuing to fight when his best years are well-behind him is partly down to Meroro’s love for the sport and a need to provide for his family, his representative said.

“Meroro is the busiest boxer in Namibia at professional level in terms of fighting internationally. Meroro has been busy because of his dedication to the sport and also because of the performance that he gives when he steps in the ring,” Moses said via WhatsApp, while in-transit at OR Tambo Airport in Johannesburg.

“The Europeans love him because he always gives all action and he’s good for TV, that’s why they keep requesting him,” Moses said.

“Meroro has been fighting most of the prospects in the world and he always shows them that he still has what it takes to become a champion.

“Even with those defeats he has, he’s still at the top in Africa. He’s the number 2 at cruiserweight and heavyweight in Africa. Unfortunately, I didn’t have a sponsorship in the country but once I get that, I’ll be able to put him on the card locally to rebuild his record.”

Moses maintained that taking on younger fighters who are entering the peak of their powers is not endangering the well-being of the veteran pugilist.

Salamov’s last fight was a failed challenge by unanimous decision for the WBA light heavyweight strap against holder Dmitry Bivol last year.

He is looking to use Saturday’s fight as a tune-up for another big showdown.

Meroro is still a very capable fighter who understands the risks involved, Moses said.

“As you know boxing is a very dangerous sport. It’s always good when you have a representative that gives you the right fight at the right time,” Moses said.

“There’s no other way to make a living in boxing as a boxer by not fighting. Whether you’re a boxer in Namibia and you’re just in the gym, the damage is the same as you get in a fight,” the African Connection Boxing and Fitness Academy founder said.

“It’s better for a fighter to go out there and show their skills to the world and make the money to help their family.

“Fighters get better money outside than at home. Boxing is not just about winning the fight, by going out there, you’re already a winner.”