As Siyabulela Hem’s proposed fight against current South African lightweight champion, Khaya Busakwe, is yet to be given the go ahead by the sanctioning committee of Boxing South Africa (BSA), the fistic regulator is still waiting for the Duncan Village-born boxer’s camp to clarify a few issues.
Three months ago, BSA approved Cape Town-based Kaya Mlata’s challenge for Hem’s SA junior-featherweight title. However, nothing has happened since, except that Hem moved up three divisions to challenge Busakwe with their fight pencilled for Saturday next week at KuGompo City’s Selborne Park.
Contacted for comment, acting BSA sanctioning committee chairperson, Droeks Malan, said: “Can’t comment on that at the moment, still under discussion.”
And BSA director of operations, Mandla Ntlanganiso, remarked: “Upon receipt of the tournament application, correspondence was sent to Hem’s team to clarify their mandatory obligations. On our side, we are clear of what ought to happen.”
Ntlanganiso said when BSA approved Mlata’s challenge in June: “BSA commends the active pursuit of the South African championship by both champions and challengers. 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 for stepping up.”
Meanwhile, Hem has not fought since he suffered a 10th round stoppage defeat to Ardy Katompa from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) in April while Busakwe is yet to fight following his loss to Nigerian boxer, Sikiru Adekunle Shogbesan, in September last year. – Monwabisi Jimlongo
