Baby Jake: A true champion

THE term champion does not necessarily mean donning a belt around your waist.

The true definition of a champion is revealed when your back is against the wall … And Thembani “Baby Jake” Mbangatha can tell you all about that.

One of Cape Town’s most loved sons put on a display of heart and substance this past weekend when he successfully defended his WBF Africa featherweight title for the first time at the Wynberg Military Base in a 10-round fight

At Kalakoda Promotions’ Battle Ready event, Thembani’s worst nightmare came back to haunt him in the sixth round when he dislocated his shoulder in a fight against the experienced Themba “Doctor” Ntsele.

The crowd waited with bated-breath to see if the Champ would continue, however, they were in for a treat as he stood up for each and every round to follow as it seemed as though he had managed to pop it in again.

He continued to outbox his opponent with one arm, deploying an educated jab, bob and weave, as the songs and cheers got even louder as Thembani outthought the former South African flyweight champion who was unable to make his presence felt even after Thabang’s injury.

The unanimous decision came down to both judges Elroy Marshall and Eddie Marshall scoring it 97-93 and judge Fred van der Ross calling it 99-91.

As referee Darryl Ribbink lifted Thembani’s hand, the crowd showed their love and gratitude. |