Boxing feast all set for Komani

Komani is set to enjoy an exceptional line-up of boxing – from amateur to professional bouts – on October 7 at the Thobi Kula Indoor Sport Centre in Komani.

In an additional boost for local boxing, new sponsors have agreed to pay for the salaries of three professional coaches and a team manager for boxers in the Chris Hani district.

After a lengthy period in which an exodus of professional boxers was evident, Chris Hani District (CHD) Amateur Boxing Organisation (Chabo) secretary Mabuti Mapeyi has been campaigning for the sport to return to its former glory in the area since 1998.

He said a turnaround was expected as sponsors had come forward following social media posts on the need to promote boxing in the area.

Coaches would earn R4,500 a month but, Mapeyi said, the response was slow.

He said he could not continue to fill both positions – that of helping on amateur and professional level – at the same time.

“I need three coaches and a team manager in Komani. We have several boxers who have turned professional, including some from Thambo village, Whittlesea and Ngcobo.”

He said 25% of the money won in fights would be deducted for the manager and the coach.

Mapeyi would continue to play an oversight role.

On October 7, a professional boxing tournament will take place at the Thobi Kula Indoor Centre with a national title fight in the junior flyweight category.

Six amateur bouts will be showcased from 10am, followed by professional fights from 2pm.