Athenkosi Thongwana from Duncan Village in East London wants to have a second bite at the South African junior-flyweight title after he failed at his first attempt in March 2023.
To prove that Thongwana is ready to fight for the national title again and face off against reigning SA junior-flyweight champion Siseko Teyisi, he has filled and submitted a challenge form to Boxing South Africa (BSA).
Thongwana’s challenge was confirmed to Ink Sport by his trainer Lonwabo Witbooi. Thongwana, who is rated number one by BSA, is on a two-fight winning streak as he beat Akhona Msindeli four months ago and Luyanda Kwankwa in October last year.
The 26-year-old Thongwana was unsuccessful in his first attempt when he lost to then SA junior-flyweight champion Mpumelelo Tshabalala, who now holds the International Boxing Organisation (IBO) title in the same division.
On the other hand, Teyisi from Mdantsane has defended his crown once – winning against his homeboy Abongile Jacob since he captured the national title after he defeated Mfanuvele Ntuli in December last year.
This will be a battle of the giants. One of those local derbies of yester years between Ntsane & Duncan village. The fans want it. The show must go on.