On December 26, 2024, the Maliboxing Academy in Bathurst hosted an unforgettable boxing event, showcasing the talent and determination of young boxers. In competition were Masibambisane Boxing Club from Port Alfred, Mfuzo Boxing Academy from Makanda, and Golden Gloves Boxing Club. The event at the Solomon Mahlangu Community Hall drew enthusiastic attendance from parents and children in Nolukhanyo, who celebrated their favourite boxers with spirited singing and cheering. This event highlighted not only the skills of the participants but also their potential as future champions.
The event was an exhilarating experience with no dull moments. Between the bouts, the stage was alive with the captivating performances of ballroom dancers and amapiano dancers from Nolukhanyo, showcasing their exceptional skills and smooth dance moves that entertained and engaged the audience.
The spotlight shone on an exceptional match featuring two 9-year-olds. Masizole “Pacquio” Mlisana from Maliboxing Academy faced Lwandle Stemele of Mfuzo Boxing Academy. This highly anticipated bout was expertly announced by renowned SA boxing administrator Siya Vabaza-Booi, who hailed it as the best bout of the afternoon.
Both young athletes showcased their considerable talent and sportsmanship, with Mlisana receiving a gold medal and a trophy and Stemele a silver medal with the trophy respectively, exemplifying their dedication and skill in the sport.
The trophy for best male boxer of the afternoon was awarded to Ongama “Oscar” Nkombise (Maliboxing Academy) who won a toe to toe battle against Kuhle Feni (Golden Gloves Boxing Club).
The best female boxer award went to Owethu “Black Mamba” Mxhuma (Masibambisane) who avenged her loss against the talented Lelethu Cunge (Mfuzo) from Makhanda.
Bathurst Ballroom Studio dancers were also awarded by the gold medals with a star trophy, “Let’s motivate these kids to fly through ballroom dancing without any limitations,” said Ntomboxolo Ditana, head coach of the dancers…
Malibongwe Tokwe, president of Maliboxing Academy which organised the event, explained the motivation for the event.
“As the festive season can be overwhelming for children, we focus on keeping them engaged through positive activities. My approach is simple, get the kids occupied with creative and constructive programmes and none of them will be caught up with festive season troubles. Thank you to all boxing clubs for honouring our invite. Special thanks to our guests Mr & Mrs Booi, the community of Bathurst and of course Summerpride: without your support this wouldn’t have happened,”
- This article was first published in Talk of the Town, January 9, 2024. The newspaper serving the communities of Ndlambe and the Sunshine Coast, with a weekly wrap of Makhanda news, is available at stores from early on Thursdays.
