TLB Promotions boss Joyce Kungwane had planned a surprise birthday party for the late Lehlohonolo ‘Hands of Stone’ Ledwaba only for death to take him away 25 days before he turned 50.
The former world champion, who succumbed to COVID-19 on Friday, was going to celebrate his 50th birthday on 27 July.
“Ledwaba was born in July and he was gonna be 50 on the 27th. We had planned a surprise birthday party for him. Unfortunately, he passed away,” Kungwane said.
The former International Boxing Federation (IBF) junior-featherweight titlist fell ill after he tested positive for COVID-19 two days before TLB Promotions’ tournament in Orlando East, Soweto, last Saturday.
“He had not been well. We were with him even at his last breath. It’s painful,” Kungwane said.
“I’m still thinking about how things are gonna be in my boxing journey. Remember, I got into boxing through him as he was my friend. It’s gonna be a tough road for me. I believe in cherishing the moments we had. I will soldier on with TLB.”
Ledwaba won the IBF belt after he outpointed John Michael Johnson in May 1999. He made five successful defences before being dethroned by legendary Filipino boxer Manny Pacquiao in June 2001.
