A fight between Aphiwe Boyiya and Sipho Mahlangu, which both boxers had been preparing for for more than two months, is not taking place anymore.
The bout which was planned as a vacant South African junior-welterweight title fight scheduled for this coming Sunday at the Orient Theatre in East London was cancelled after Boxing South Africa (BSA) downgraded it to a non-title strap.
“It’s an unexpected turn of events. However, we have not lost anything. Boyiya has not lost anything, he’s still in contention for the title,” Boyiya’s manager and trainer Lonwabo Witbooi remarked.
“It’s one of those moments when you take a tough, but wise decision. He’s still safe, we will wait for the promoter to give us direction. We all sat down as management and the promotion and decided not to risk Boyiya. We had to think long term than putting everything at risk. Boyiya is in good spirits and understands what’s happening.”
Problems started after the handlers of Sibusiso Zingange, who’s rated number two in the division, put a spanner in the works by baulking at the idea of writing a step aside letter to allow Boyiya to face eighth-rated Mahlangu in the SA title contest.
Mzi Booi of Kay B Promotions had signed Boyiya and Mahlangu to fight for the vacant title when Zingange was already contracted to face against Talent Baloyi whom he beat two months ago.
As a result of the cancellation of
Boyiya’s fight against Mahlangu, the main supporting bout to the SA featherweight title contest between defending champion Zolisa Batyi and Lindelani Sibisi is now going to be Amzolele Dyeyi’s clash against Simamkele Singile.
Batyi, who won the title when he stopped Jeff Magagane in the second round in December 2022, has already successfully defended his crown four times. – Monwabisi Jimlongo
