Women’s boxing in South Africa is set for a major boost with an all-female Box and Dine hosted by Showtime Boxing Promotions at Graceland Casino in Secunda, on Friday night.
The initiative is the brainchild of South Africa’s first ever female boxing promoter, Mbali Zantsi, who has been hosting all female boxing events since 2007. Zantsi was named gsport’s Woman of the Year in 2009, for her remarkable contribution to women’s boxing in SA.
Zantsi, who got her boxing license in 2003, is excited about her partnership with the Department of Sport and Recreation South Africa (SRSA), which is sanctioned by Boxing South Africa and set for live broadcast on SABC 2 on Friday night.
“We’ve had a drought for a long time in women’s boxing. We have not had TV coverage for a long time. We have had smaller events in partnership with municipalities but Friday’s event is definitely going to reignite an interest in women’s boxing.”
Doors open at 19:00 on Friday and guests will be treated to five fights including the main bout, a WBF World Junior Featherweight clash between former WBF Champion, Unathi Myekeni and South African Champion, Gabisile Tshabalala
Zantsi says the partnership with SRSA will allow Showtime Boxing Promotions to host regular boxing tournaments for women boxers in the build up to this marquee event every Women’s Month.
“I am standing tall. I am standing on the shoulders of a giant. The partnership with SRSA is tremendous for women’s boxing,” said Zantsi. “Our Minister walks the talk. He made a promise to us and he has more than delivered.”
Zantsi says she is also excited that Boxing South Africa has come to the party in terms of committing to regular women’s fights, as undercards to men’s fights.
“Women’s boxing needs regular fights and I am glad Boxing South Africa is showing support for our women. We have the talent and hunger from the women. They just need more opportunities and better support. Friday will be the start of great things for women’s boxing.”
Catch live coverage on SABC 2 from 21:30 on Friday, 28 August 2015.
Photo 1 caption: Showtime Boxing Promotions boss Mbali Zantsi will be hosting an all-female boxing evening at the Graceland Casino in Secunda on Friday night, and has received welcome support from SRSA and SABC, who will carry the event live no SABC 2 from 21h30. Photo: Sportzpics
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