Boxing South Africa (BSA) announced on Wednesday evening that a South African junior-featherweight title fight between challenger Kaya Mlata and reigning champion Siyabulela Hem has been approved.
The unbeaten KwaBhaca-born Mlata, who is now based in Cape Town, is the number one contender as per the BSA ratings.
The boxing regulator also confirmed the approval of an SA female mini-flyweight title contest between current champion Thobela Nyanda and unbeaten number one contender Tyla Promnick.
“BSA commends the active pursuit of the South African championship by both champions and challengers. The governing body has observed a marked increase in applications and willingness from boxers across weight divisions to stake their claim for national honours. This enthusiasm is a healthy signal for the sport, reinforcing the relevance and prestige of the SA title,” BSA director of operations Mandla Ntlanganiso said.
“The growing interest from our pugilists is exactly what Boxing South Africa wants to see. A thriving national championship structure is the bedrock of professional boxing development. We applaud Mlata and Promnick for stepping up. Their commitment raises the competitive bar for everyone.”
Both Malta and Hem still have other commitments to take care of before they square up against each other. Mlata faces former national junior-featherweight champion Bongani Mahlangu in Cape Town on Saturday next week while Hem is due to collide against Ardy Katompa from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) in an international featherweight bout in KuGompo City on Friday, 24 April.
“BSA confirms that both bouts will be scheduled in due course following compliance with all regulatory requirements, including medical clearances and contractual procedures. Further details on venues and dates will be released once finalised,” a BSA statement added.
“The South African championships remain the pinnacle of domestic boxing, and BSA encourages all promoters, managers and boxers to continue utilising these titles to build their legacies and earn higher continental and world rankings.”
