A boxing career that promised much and delivered less, is set to be revived when Luyanda ‘Pretty Boy’ Ntwanambe makes a much-awaited return with a fight next month.
That the career promised a lot was further fuelled by Ntwanambe’s capture of the World Boxing Organisation (WBO) Africa flyweight title after he beat Fikile Mlonyeni at East London’s Orient Theatre in September 2019. But Ntwanambe’s achievement was just that as he came short of bringing glory home.
Now Ntwanambe will attempt to revive his career when he clashes with Rofhiwa Maphupha in a flyweight bout at the Portuguese Hall in Turffontein, Johannesburg, on Sunday, 17 August.
Last fought when he lost to former International Boxing Organisation (IBO) and South African flyweight champion Jackson ‘M3’ Chauke at the Boardwalk in Gqeberha in April 2021, Ntwanambe will walk into the ring under Bernie Pailman’s guidance.
“I’m happy that he’s back. He’s a very good and skilful boxer,” Chauke said after hearing that Ntwanambe is fighting next month.
Duncan Village-born Ntwanambe’s record stands at seven victories with four knockouts, one defeat and a draw. On the other hand, Maphupha lost by a first round stoppage to Mncedisi Duze in Estcourt last month. – Monwabisi Jimlongo
He has an unfinished business in the square jungle . It’s time to finish what he started.