The much-awaited South African featherweight title fight between current champion Zolisa Batyi and challenger Yamkela Phaliso is hanging in the balance.
This came after Batyi and his handlers failed to agree on a purse with Kay B Boxing Promotions boss Mzi Booi, who’s going to promote the fight.
“There’s a change in as far as the Batyi fight is concerned. We couldn’t come to an agreement regarding the purse. Then I gave them time to go think about what I had offered. In the end, we couldn’t agree,” Booi confirmed.
Mlandeli Tengimfene, who manages Phaliso, said when called by Ink Sport: “I was told that negotiations with the champion had collapsed and Boxing South Africa (BSA) was informed.
“As Last Born Boxing Promotions, we have an interest in this fight because of our boxer Phaliso. I have since asked BSA to call for a purse bid. I’m protecting my boxers’ interests here.”
Contacted for comment, Batyi’s manager and trainer Baba ‘Babes’ Makala said: “We are training very hard as we are back negotiating with the promoter.” – Monwabisi Jimlongo
