By Monwabisi Jimlongo
Jackie Brice of Jackie Brice Boxing Promotions is planning to pit Lunga Sitemela against old horse Koos Sibiya in a South African junior-lightweight title defence in October.
Already, Brice has submitted relevant documentation to Boxing South Africa (BSA) seeking approval of the fight.
“Yes, I want Sitemela to defend against Koos Sibiya here in Cape Town. We are waiting for the BSA sanctioning committee to let us know of their decision,” Brice said.
The 41-year-old Sibiya from Siyabuswa in Mpumalanga is winless in his last five fights as he has drawn once and lost four times.
Initially, Sitemela was earmarked to defend his title against Lucky Monyebane, who defeated Sibiya last month.
“We offered him the purse money, he was happy with it. But his coach felt that he wasn’t ready yet,” Brice said about Monyebane.
It’s going to be the fourth time Sibiya challenges for the same title should the sanctioning committee approve his proposed fight against Sitemela.
Sibiya lost to Jasper Seroka in his first attempt to win the SA junior-lightweight title in August 2015. He went on to lose twice to former champion Phila Mpontshane in July 2018 and in April the following year.
“Koos fought against Lucky Monyebane last month and put up a good show. He’s been around and he’s got the experience,” Brice remarked.
If Koos Sibiya has not won a fight in his last 5 outings then on what basis should the SA title be sanctioned?