KayB Promotions’ quest to combine boxing tournaments with other forms of entertainment will see a unique show headlined by the highly anticipated rematch between Zolisa Batyi and Abdul-Aziz Kunert at East London’s Orient Theatre on November 23.
They will battle for Batyi’s SA featherweight title after their previous clash in August 2023 ended in draw when Nxarhuni’s Batyi was making his maiden defence in Kunert’s backyard in Cape Town.
The stakes have become higher, with Batyi having since registered two defences while Kunert will be hoping it is third time lucky for him after failing twice to win the belt.
The reformed former inmate first lost to Asanda Gingqi when they battled for the vacant belt.
The show will be a third for KayB after making its promotional debut in March and returning in August, with Batyi headlining both.
It will again feature music and comedy performances, with radio personality and influencer Lusanda Mbane whipping up a frenzy with interviews between bouts.
KayB boss Mzi Booi said it was vital for the boxing tournament to be multifaceted to attract casual fans.
“It is not uncommon to see revellers chilling at the beach while a boxing tournament is taking place a few metres away at the Orient Theatre and we want to change that,” he said.
“Those revellers must come to boxing and not find themselves lost but accommodated.
“Boxing shows must include other forms of entertainment, and having music and comedy performances is in line with that objective.”
Local musicians Inathi and Bulumko will thrill spectators, with comedian Skhumba providing the lighter note.
Having proven a success in previous shows, the entertainment is expected to help attract a full house. .
Batyi’s vulnerability has helped bring challengers confident of dethroning him only to find the going tough in the ring.
The first to succumb was Gauteng Lucky Hobyane, who was stopped in eight rounds, before Yamkela Phaliso also fell short in August, with Batyi showing vulnerability in both bouts.
Resurgent former two-time SA champion Aphiwe Mboyiya will continue on his quest to win his third title when he takes on Lindokuhle Dlamini hoping a win will earn him a junior-welterweight title shot.
Mboyiya, who has titles at featherweight and junior-lightweight, returned with a bang, stopping Chumani Tunzi to win the provincial belt in August to kick-start his march up the ratings.
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