The bell has rung for the last time for one of the most recognisable fight officials in South Africa Alfred ‘Kid Bassie’ Buqwana, who passed away aged 79.
Kroonstad-born Buqwana, a former boxer, established himself as one of the finest ring officials after he retired as a fighter more than four decades ago.
During his time as a professional boxer, Buqwana squared up against the likes of Nkosana ‘Happyboy’ Mgxaji and Tsietsi Maretloane, who are both deceased.
Buqwana, a recipient of a Lifetime Achievement Award from former State President Thabo Mbeki, was one of the judges during the International Boxing Federation (IBF), World Boxing Council (WBC) and International Boxing Organisation (IBO) heavyweight bout between eventual winner Lennox Lewis and Mike Tyson in Tennessee, United States, in June 2002.
As a judge and a referee, Buqwana officiated in 160 fights including 30 world titles.
