Boxing enthusiasts in KwaZulu-Natal were treated to an unforgettable experience at The Station urban space events in Durban on Saturday afternoon. Dubbed “Return to Glory,” the organizers, promoters, trainers, and boxers put on a spectacular show, treating the crowds to six bouts in different divisions for both males and females.
Boxers, mostly from KZN, of whom a majority had just turned pro, made the province proud by winning their bouts. The first victory came from debutant Asanda Mkhwanazi from Lindelani, north of Durban, who is trained by the renowned Moruti Mthalane. She knocked out Nothando Ncube from uMfolozi, north of KZN.
Up next was a heavyweight bout between Joshua “The Beast” Pretorius and Yusuf Mwanza from the DRC, which ended in a draw. As the afternoon turned into evening, crowd favorite Menelisi Ndlovu from kwaXimba took to the stage against Arnel Lubisi from the Mpumalanga province. Ndlovu romped to victory via another TKO, much to the excitement of his strong support from Cato Ridge, who broke into song and dance as he was crowned the SADC bantamweight champion.
Finally, it was time for the main bout, where Umthwalume-born Phelelani Khumalo concluded the evening by knocking out Festin Bukasa to be crowned ABU middleweight champion.
Photo: Supplied
