Minster of Sport, Arts and Culture Nathi Mthethwa has sent his condolences to the family of the late former world champion Lehlohonolo ‘Hands of Stone’ Ledwaba.
The one-time South African junior-featherweight titlist succumbed to COVID-19 on Friday. Ledwaba, who was going to turn 50 on 27 July, was a former International Boxing Federation (IBF) junior-featherweight titlist.
“Hands of Stone was a sensational boxing role model. He did a sterling job as a carrier of the South African flag,” Mthethwa said in a statement on Saturday.
“From myself and the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture, we extend heartfelt sympathies to our legend’s family, friends and fans. He will be deeply missed by all.”
Ledwaba won the IBF belt in May 1999 after he outpointed John Michael Johnson and then made five defences until he was stopped by legendary Filipino boxer Manny Pacquiao on his sixth defence of the title in June 2001.
Soweto-born Ledwaba registered 36 wins with 23 knockouts, six losses and a draw. He also won the World Boxing Union (WBU) bantamweight and featherweight titles.
Ledwaba is the second boxing personality to succumb to COVID-19 in less than a month. Ring official Neville Hotz passed away in May.
