Jako runs, but fails to hide and now faces probe for dismal show
Daily Dispatch
@Dispatch_DD
BOXING SA will review the performance of mandatory challenger Luyanda Jako after his dismal showing in a SA junior-welterweight title challenge against Mzolisi Yoyo at East London’s Orient Theatre on Sunday.
Jako, whose mandatory status was surprising after a less than stellar run in the junior-welterweight division, quit on his stool at the beginning of the third round.
Although he managed to get through with his punches – especially with the straight left – Jako fought like a scared rabbit in the two rounds the fight lasted.
He was felled by a right hand in the first round and was staggered every time Yoyo landed a punch or even a jab.
In the second round Yoyo upped the tempo as he went down to the body where Jako appeared to be ready to crumble.
Despite taking a body bombardment, his decision to quit on his stool after the second round left a bitter taste in the mouth of the packed hall.
Boxing SA provincial manager Phakamile Jacobs, who was the supervisor of the fight that also featured the WBF Intercontinental crown, confirmed he was going to submit a report to the mother body about Jako’s dismal performance.
“He complained about chest pains and decided to quit but I think he will have to explain further about his disappointing performance,” said Jacobs.
The fight topped a Xaba Promotions tournament presented in association with the Daily Dispatch which commemorated the June 16 Youth Day in memory of the 1976 Soweto upheavals.
Several prizes were presented to boxers, ring officials and lucky spectators as well as to a boxing fan who travelled all the way from Port Elizabeth to be presented with a brand new mobile wheelchair.
Besides the festivities outside the ring, the event also featured a WBA Pan-African bantamweight title clash between Duncan Village fighter Thabo Sishwane and Michael Barnor from Ghana.
The bout was a disappointment with Sishwane living up to his clowning reputation against the limited Ghanaian.
Referee Wally Snowball had a busy afternoon warning and deducting points from both boxers for their dirty tactics.
Snowball finally saved the fans from the farce when he stopped it in the fifth round in favour of Sishwane to spark protests from Barnor’s camp.
Asked why he trampled on Barnor’s feet, Sishwane said he did that deliberately as the Ghanaian was trying to wrestle him to the ground.
Other results: Siseko Nkohliso bt Msindisi Mathibe (mini-fly); Siphosethu Mvula bt Ziki Noveve TKO2 (jnr-feather); Onela Qongwana bt Khangelani Jack KO2 (bantam); Vuyolwethu Sirhayi bt Masande Hlanga TKO4 (feather); Mxolisi Nombewu bt Nasiphi Mdlangazi KO2 (bantam).