The tournament at the Christian Centre in East London on Friday will give young boxers a platform to stake their claim in the sport and advance their careers, with headliner Siyabulela Hem kick-starting his international forays.
Hem will engage in his first international bout when he takes on Ghanaian knockout specialist John Zile for the WBO youth junior-featherweight title.
Zile, 24, is a replacement for compatriot Enoch Tetteh, who also carried a reputation of being a knockout artist.
Zile has knocked out all but two of his 14 victims, with a loss and two draws, while Hem’s record sports a loss and a draw in 10 bouts, making him a relative underdog in comparison.
While his coming-out party was his bludgeoning of veteran Bongani Mahlangu into a one-sided three-round knockout, the jury is still out on Hem’s potential.
There are differing opinions about the win, with some apportioning it to Father Time finally catching up with the 45-year-old veteran.
Hem confirmed that he got wind of the detractions but brushed them aside.
He said he was happy to convince doubting Thomases that he was the goods by sending Zile to slumberland.
“You know people will never be satisfied, but you must just do what you are supposed to do and eventually they will give you your dues,” he said.
“Even after I beat Zile, I know some will have something negative to say.
“All I need is to continue with my quest to the world stage by beating everyone put in front of me.”
Hem’s promoter, Xaba Promotions, is convinced that not only is the 22-year-old Duncan Village star destined for stardom, but that he would make history by becoming a multi-world champion.
“We are witnessing the beginning of a great boxing journey here, and people must embrace this stage of Hem’s career knowing that when he finally conquers the world, they can say they were there when it all started,” XP boss Ayanda Matiti said.
One of the bouts with an interesting storyline will be between SA top-rated bantamweight contender Likho Sigaba and Celimpilo Ngema, with Sigaba biding his time to get a shot at the SA title held by Landile Ngxeke.
The analytical chemistry graduate implored Ngxeke to make up his mind to vacate the title or defend it against him, alluding to reports that Ngxeke was pursuing a world title shot.
“I hope he decides on what to do because I have been waiting for my turn for a while now,” he said.
“I know Man Down [Ngxeke] and I respect him, but if we have to fight, then let’s do it.”
Ngxeke, who was seated behind Sigaba at the midweek premedical, could only shake his head and smile.
“He better be careful, he might just get his wish,” was all he would say.
Siseko Teyisi will vie for the maiden defence of his SA junior-flyweight title against Abongile “Farai” Jacob in a Mdantsane battle of former amateur champions.
Daily Dispatch
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