30 April 2009 — Terry Pettifer

South African fight fans are in for a treat of action over the next three months, and what with the July 11 blockbuster tournament at Emperors Palace foremost in the minds of most boxing acolytes, it pleases this scribe to note that our June 6, bill at Graceland will be an ideal appetizer for the main menu at Emperors a month later, when the likes of Phillip Ndou, Lovemore Ndou, Tommy Oosthuizen, Jared Lovett, Simpiwe Vetyeka and Eric Barcelona occupy center stage.

At Graceland though, the spotlight will be keenly focused on Malawi-born Isaac "Goldenboy" Chilembe (12-1, 8 knockouts) who will be fighting Kenya's dangerous Douglas Otieno (19-2, 9 knockouts) in a bout for the vacant WBO Africa light heavyweight title!

"Chilembe is a brilliant prospect" said Golden Gloves Promoter Rodney Berman, "and he'll certainly need to underline his effectiveness as a light heavyweight, after having had most of his previous outings in the super middleweight weight bracket". Chilembe (21) recently rejoined Golden Gloves Promotions and will be hoping to break into the world rankings in the next eight months.

So who is the man Chilembe have to beat at Graceland casino if he is to maintain his momentum? Douglas Otieno is 27-years old, has been boxing professionally since 2005 and hails out of Nairobi, Kenya. Nicknamed "Al Capone", this dazzling boxer has earned a fine reputation over the past four years and has only had two setbacks in the paid ranks. "This guy is a comer, and at 27 he is only reaching his peak" said Matchmaker Ruben Rasodi. "Moreover, the majority of Kenyan boxers are extremely tough and have had very good pedigrees in the amateurs".

Otieno's last defeat was in December 2008 when he challenged Nathan Cleverly for the British Empire light heavyweight crown but was halted in the fourth round. "Otieno's record suggests that he is an extremely gifted boxer and don't forget that he has won nineteen of twenty-one fights" added Berman.

The Golden Gloves CEO concluded by saying, "Right now he is exactly the type of opponent Chilembe needs to fight and providing our man comes through with flying colours he could very well fight for a world title inside the next eighteen months. It all depends on him. Clearly having a WBO belt around his waist will be exceptionally helpful at this stage of his career, and I expect both boxers to put up a tremendous battle on the night".

Also to feature on the Graceland bill, are the unbeaten Grant "Fireball" Fourie.

29 April 2009 — Terry Pettifer

Golden Gloves Promotions in association with Banner Promotions will stage a slugfest in Laredo, Texas on June 19, involving one of our jointly-promoted world beaters, Fernando Beltran Jnr. At age 27, the tough-as-teak Beltran (32-3-1, 18 knockouts), who hails from Mexico, is already an IBO world champion and will make the first defence of his IBF Latino featherweight title against Pennsylvania's rugged and hard-hitting Monte Meza-Clay (28-2, 19 knockouts) on an ESPN 2 bill at the Laredo Entertainment Center.

"Beltran is a tremendous competitor and together with our business associate Art Pelulo of Banner Promotions, we mean to take him right to the top" said Golden Gloves Promotions CEO Rodney Berman.

A southpaw, Beltran won the vacant IBF Latino featherweight crown on March 20 when he outpointed Miguel Roma on a split decision over 12 rounds. Rated #4 in the world by the IBF, Beltran will know he has a real fight on his hands against Mez-Clay, who despite being short and comparatively chunky, relishes fighting in the trenches, where he applies sustained body punishment. Not that Meza-Clay hasn't earned recognition of his own, and besides being a ferocious puncher, he presently occupies the #6 spot on the IBF world featherweight ratings.

Back in 2001, Ndou roared to the mantle of finest "Pound-for-Pound" South African fighter after a feverishly fought contest with Cassius Baloyi, that is rated as one of the greatest bouts ever seen on local soil. Baloyi was the first and only one of Phillip's victims ever to go the distance and it should also be remembered that Ndou is the ONLY South African boxer ever to win a world title with a 100% list of knockout wins! That excludes a bout he lost in England earlier in his career. Can Phillip do what no fighter has ever managed to do, namely knock out Lovemore Ndou? It's an intriguing question and one that will only be answered on July 11 at the "Palace of Dreams".

"Demetrius is really looking forward to coming to South Africa and no doubt his sublime skills will greatly bolster our July 11 show which already has the likes of Phillip Ndou, Lovemore Ndou, Tommy Oosthuizen, Jared Lovett, Simpiwe Vetyeka and Eric Barcelona on the roster. What a night it's going to be" concluded Rodney Berman.

24 April 2009 — Terry Pettifer

Emperors Palace will be rocking to the sound of 2009's most explosive fistic action, when on July 11, Golden Gloves Promotions, in association with SuperSport and Emperors Palace, hosts a "Triple Thunder" event, the like of which fight fans generally dream about!

Indeed, with acolytes already abuzz at the prospect of seeing two of this country's most exciting young fighters; Tommy "Tommy Gun" Oosthuizen and Jared "The Storm" Lovett exchange heavy artillery in a bout for the vacant IBO "Youth" light heavyweight title, there is also the mouth watering prospect of having one of the most exciting bouts imaginable on the bill, that between Phillip "The Timebomb" Ndou and Lovemore Ndou, a former IBF world champion who has been campaigning out of Australia for a number of years. Then too, we'll be featuring one of Golden Gloves' most recent acquisitions, Simpiwe Vetyeka (20-1, 12 knockouts), a breathtaking boxer with sublime talent, in a contest with Eric Barcelona for the vacant IBO bantamweight crown.

Experts will undoubtedly agree that this tournaments line-up is one of the most alluring in years!

That the Ndou Vs Ndou bout will be a thunderous battle, appears certain and bookmakers will be hard-pressed to install either man as the favourite. Phillip Ndou recently made a long-awaited comeback to the ring after a four-year absence and notwithstanding the fact that he now fights as a junior welterweight, this merciless puncher, who once held the WBU junior lightweight title, has already convinced critics that he has lost none of his skill and electrifying power.

Back in 2001, Ndou roared to the mantle of finest "Pound-for-Pound" South African fighter after a feverishly fought contest with Cassius Baloyi, that is rated as one of the greatest bouts ever seen on local soil. Baloyi was the first and only one of Phillip's victims ever to go the distance and it should also be remembered that Ndou is the ONLY South African boxer ever to win a world title with a 100% list of knockout wins! That excludes a bout he lost in England earlier in his career. Can Phillip do what no fighter has ever managed to do, namely knock out Lovemore Ndou? It's an intriguing question and one that will only be answered on July 11 at the "Palace of Dreams".

Lovemore Ndou is without question one of the most experienced and toughest fighters on the planet, with a record of 46 wins, 11 losses and 1 draw. Also, his knockout record is frightening, remembering that 31 of his opponents failed to go the distance. Moreover he has fought some of the finest boxers in the world, like Junior Witter, Paul Malignaggi, Kermit Citron, Naoofel Ben Rabah, Miguel Angel Cotto and Sharmba Mitchell.

Lovemore turn professional in 1993, winning 10 of his first 11 bouts before going to Australia. There he honed his skills and eventually went on to lift the IBF junior welterweight crown by compelling the retirement of Naoufel Ben Rabah in the 11th round in February 2007. Ndou subsequently lost the crown on points to Paul Malignaggi in the same year, but took Malignaggi to a "split" decision in a return match last year. Nicknamed "The Black Panther", this South African-born pugilist is highly respected overseas and part of his tremendous mystique stems from the fact that he has never been stopped!

Clearly the Oosthuizen/Lovett bout has gripped the imagination of fight lovers throughout the country and since both of these predatory light heavyweights have unblemished professional records, complimented by their splintering knockout proficiency (Oosthuizen 9-0, 9 knockouts, Lovett 8-0, 8 knockouts) it makes sense that the unmistakable "needle" between the two fighters will make for a blistering battle that seems unlikely to go the distance! Yet one can never be sure, and there are some pundits who feel that the technical ability of both Oosthuizen (21) and Lovett (22) could translate into a bitterly waged contest that could perhaps go down to the wire. Phew!

Then of course there is Simpiwe Vetyeka, who originally hails from Duncan Village in the Eastern Cape, and who starts his career under the GGP banner with an immediate crack at the vacant IBO bantamweight title against the tiger-like Eric Barcelona of the Philippines. The current SA bantamweight champion, Vetyeka has already defended his national title 9 times, since lifting the homespun belt from Khulile Makeba in only his 11th fight. His only setback thus far has been to WBC bantamweight king Hozumi Hasegawa via a 12-round decision back in May 2007. By all accounts it was a grueling and finely poised battle throughout.

Vetyeka turned professional on January 11, 2002 and won his first 16 contests before challenging for the WBC bantamweight title. At 5' 7" he is fairly tall for a bantamweight and boasts some highly credible victories over the likes of Ebenezer Tumane (TKO 2), Lubabalo Msuthu (TKO 8), Nkqubela Gwazela (W 12), and Nkosinathi Tshnavhe (TKO 8). A solid boxer with numbing punching power, Vetyeka is unquestionably a tremendous fighter and we at GGP have high hopes of him becoming a household name in South African boxing over the next two years.

And Eric Barcelona? At age 27, this nuggety Filipino has fought some of the world's best fighters, and has an overall record of 47-15-4, with 17 knockouts to his name. Local fans will remember him for the great battle he gave former IBO bantamweight champion Silence Mabuza in 2004, and it's noteworthy that Barcelona has won 8 of his last 10 bouts, including victories over the likes of Aljun Salogaol, Jerry Manganip, Danilo Pena, Phil Angcamor, Brix Ray and Pol Apolinario.

Nevertheless, South Africa's Simpiwe Vetyeka is presently a highly ranked WBC bantamweight contender, and appears confident that he'll have enough of "everything" to impose his craftsmanship to maximum effect come July 11 at Emperors Palace. "He is a superb boxer" said Rodney Berman, who believes that Vetyeka will win the IBO championship when he faces Barcelona.

* Meanwhile we are pleased to announce that Isaac Chilembe has joined Golden Gloves Promotions and will be fighting at Graceland on June 6, for the WBO Africa light heavyweight title.

"Rodney's the man to make it happen" said Chilembe's new trainer, Colin Nathan, after being informed of the fight. While Chilembe's opponent has yet to be announced, Promoter Rodney Berman is clearly elated at again having Chilembe under his promotional banner. The fact that the Malawi-born Chilembe is a masterful boxer-puncher pleases Berman all the more and since becoming a professional performer in October 2005, the 21-year-old Chilembe has only faltered once, when he dropped a very close six-round duke to Wilberforce Shihepo on July 5, 2007. But a little more than four months after, Chilembe set the record straight by clearly outboxing Shihepo over six heats.

To date, the good-looking boxer from Malawi has halted no less than 8 of his opponents. Moreover, he owns victories over such respected opposition as Charles Adamu (W12) –in a bout for the vacant African Boxing Union super middleweight crown, Chamunorwa Gonorenda (KO 4), David Kitooke (TKO 8), Godfrey Nene (TKO 2), Charles Chisamba (W 6), Mark Sloane (W 4), Ronnie Lategan (TKO 2) and Thamsanqa Tindleni (TKO 2). Having alternated his efforts between the super middleweight and light heavyweight divisions, Chilembe has now decided to focus his career in the heavier weight zone (light heavyweight) where he finds he has more strength and punching power.

"We now have the three most electrifying light heavyweight prospects in the country boxing for Golden Gloves Promotions" said Berman. "Moreover we plan to take all three of them to world honours!"

24 April 2009 — Terry Pettifer

Hey….want to see the best local dust up since Ndou fought Baloyi and Coetzer fought Du Plooy? Then be at Emperors Palace on the Winter's night of July 11, when two young warriors named Tommy Oosthuizen and Jared Lovett swap punches for the first ever "Youth" world championship held in South Africa.

Per courtesy of the IBO (International Boxing Organization), these two protagonists will battle for a decorated belt symbolizing their coming and hopefully all the riches and trappings that go with being a pugilistic king. They know no fear, feel no pain and hit with savage force, asking no quarter and giving none in return. Or so we are told.

Actually young Tommy (21) –whose potency of clout has earned him the nickname "Tommy Gun"- and Jared (22)-who this scribe dubbed "The Storm", are fairly well-mannered, likeable young fellows who just happen to be involved in the toughest sport in the world! Indeed while their naturally affable natures outside the ring have earned them the respect of their acolytes in the East Rand and Southern Suburbs of Johannesburg respectively, once they strip for combat, their adulation comes from being able to smear the opposition all over the canvas, the sooner the better!

Lovett hails from Irish/English stock, was trained as an amateur by his father Aubrey, himself no slouch with the gloves and has come to fame with 8 knockouts in as many bouts. By contrast, the string-bean Oosthuizen is as Afrikaans as biltjong, and is son to former national junior middleweight and middleweight champion Charles, who made a living beating the senses out of opponents during the 1980's. Oh yes, young Thomas has accounted for all his 9 victims via the short route, and with venom aforethought.

An electrician by trade, Oosthuizen resides in Boksburg, which was the same town that gave the world Gerrie Coetzee, former WBA world heavyweight champion. Lovett has studied sports management, loves music –especially drum and base and hip-hop, and has made pugilism his life since being able to walk. To date his career has been as meteoric as Oosthuizen's and don't let anyone tell you there is a better looking boxer in South Africa. An Elvis Presley look alike? That's what they say down Rosettenville way, where his sire Aubrey spent his turbulent youth.

The fact that these two excellent light heavyweights are on collision course so early in their profession bears analyses. But as Golden Gloves Promoter Rodney Berman so aptly put it, "There will be no loser on the night, since we've signed the loser to a three-year contract that specifies him having at least four bouts a year for no less than R50,000 per fight!"

Bearing this in mind, who wants to finish second in this potential donnybrook? Certainly not Oosthuizen, (9-0, with 9 knockouts) whose trainer is former SA welterweight titleholder Harold "The Hammer" Volbrecht. "I'm privileged to being given this fight because I've long dreamed about fighting Lovett, but for one reason or another we were never matched as amateurs. Come July 11 there will be only one winner and I aim to be that man" said the pale-faced slayer from Van Dyck Park, Boksburg.

And Lovett? "I know that Oosthuizen is a great hitter but I mean to use all the knowledge I've accumulated over the years to neutralize both his size and reach. Yes, I'll knock him out!" By the way, Lovett hails from a suburb that has produced more than its fair share of ring marvels over the years, amongst them Ernie Eustice, Willie Smith, Bruce McIntyre, Len Leisching, Herbie Vermeulen and Grant Webster.

So with both fighters talking victory this writer found it appropriate to sound out the opinions of various experts, as to which boxer will ultimately triumph on the night. Man-about-boxing Jeff Ellis clearly leans towards Lovett, who he believes is "by far the better strategist". Yet Ellis sounded a warning: "Oosthuizen has death-ray eyes and as a southpaw is an instinctive counter puncher. Lovett cannot be too careful, especially in the early rounds. Having said that, I'm tipping Lovett to win the fight, although it should prove to be a rip-roaring war while it lasts".

Trainer Manny Fernandes is a neutral observer, but he feels that Oosthuizen has a slight edge. "My only concern is the fact that Oosthuizen has hitherto been boxing as a super middleweight and as you know weight stops trains. If he (Oosthuizen) comes in strong on the night I'd pick him to win a fever-pitched battle".

Bongani Magasela of Sowetan was guarded in his appraisal of the contest. "This is really a very tough call. One punch could and probably will swing the fight. But since I know that Lovett takes a great shot on the chin, as seen when he fought Ronnie Lategan, and have reservations about Oosthuizen's durability, I would cautiously fancy the 'Storm' to win the title. Mind you it could well go the other way it's that tough a pick".

Veteran sportswriter Chris Swanepoel never hesitated in selecting Lovett. "Boxing is not always about talent, more often than not it's about dedication and perseverance and I doubt whether there's a fitter fighter in the country at present than Lovett." Well known southern suburbs boxing personality Brian Pretorius, however, sees Oosthuizen winning the fight, because as he put it, "He moves too fast, is ring wise and has a thunderous left hand".

Paul Hetz of the now defunct Boxing Express had one of the most outright comments. "Oosthuizen is a blood-and-guts fighter like his father was, while Lovett is a thinking boxer-puncher. If it goes into the trenches, which I'm saying it will, Lovett will walk into a haymaker and be counted out inside six rounds".

Former light heavyweight contender Lionel Hunter expects to see a very tough fight but believes that Lovett's superior skill and precision will carry the day. "I'm not too clued up on Oosthuizen but I know Jared and being from the 'South' I naturally favour my hometown fighter. Lovett to win, either on points or by a knockout".

Though Golden Gloves Promotions CEO Rodney Berman would not be drawn into picking a victor, his remarks on the fight were nonetheless illuminating. "Because of the level of pride and passion involved this will go down in SA ring history as having been one of the most explosive and unforgettable fights of the era. Irrespective of who emerges victorious, I believe that we have a local ring epic on the cards".

Radio personality Peter Leopeng has been covering the fight beat for a number of years and found it impossible to select a winner. "Whichever fighter lands first wins the fight, it's that simple".

And on that rather poignant note, we eagerly await July 11 and the fireworks to come.

17 April 2009 — Terry Pettifer

The July 11 fistic extravaganza at Emperors Palace features some of the most intriguing South African boxing talent in a long while, and while the likes of Phillip Ndou and Simphiwe Vetyeka will be flaunting their lavish skills at the 'Mecca of SA boxing' it's hardly surprising that much of the focus has been firmly riveted on the vacant IBO "Youth" world light heavyweight title bout between Jared "The Storm" Lovett (8-0, 8 knockouts) and Tommy "Tommy Gun" Oosthuizen (9-0, 9 knockouts)!

Indeed, it's an ascertained fact that some of the most attractive bouts seen in this country were those between local fighters, many of whom fostered an unmistakable dislike for each other. Purists will tell you about the bitter rivalries that existed between Wally Baker and Roy Ingram in the Twenties, Ernie Eustice and Billy Allen, Laurie Stevens and Alf James and of course the pin-up 'grudge' trilogy that saw Mike Holt and Eddie Thomas commit fistic mayhem in their unforgettable series of battles. Of closer vintage, we had the bloody confrontations between Joe "Axe-Killer" Ngidi and Jaos "Kangaroo" Maoto and one splintering fight that saw Bruce McIntyre dig deep into his barest reserves to outslug the ill-fated Cameron Adams on a rain-swept night at the Rand Stadium.

Not to forget that epic local war that saw Phillip "The Timebomb" Ndou outpoint Cassius Baloyi over 12 grueling rounds in a bout for "Pound-for-Pound" recognition as the finest pugilist in South Africa. So where does the Oosthuizen vs Lovett contest feature in terms of box-office appeal? This scribe consulted no less than 15 experts to obtain their feelings on the fight, and everyone agreed that the portents signified a fiercely fought, no-holds-barred battle that will likely live up to all the pre-fight ballyhoo that pen-pushers like myself find so engrossing.

"It will be a dispassionate struggle for supremacy", said former boxing editor Ronnie Ellis, while retired fight sage Rudy Dembskey called it, "another potential bloodbath in the tradition of Holt versus Thomas back in the 1950's".

Golden Gloves Promotions are promoting the match….Emperors Palace are hosting it…and SuperSport will be televising the action LIVE to fight fans throughout the land. With the benefit of over 30 years experience in the thick-ear profession, your writer finds it difficult not to be swept up in the roller-coaster atmosphere that is prevalent at this time. Lovett backers in the south of Johannesburg are staunchly behind their 22-year-old hero, whose Adonis-like features and blazing fists have already earned him South Africa's "Prospect of the Year" award for 2008.

Conversely, the beanpole Oosthuizen –all 6' 6" of him – is not short of supporters and it would take a brave man to vocally bet against the 21-year-old anywhere on the East Rand of Gauteng. By all accounts, this long limbed boxer-puncher has every fight lover in the Boksburg, Springs, Brakpan and Benoni region extolling his worth as a future world beater.

"So many people talk about the number of fighters that have been produced in the south of Johannesburg, but have they forgotten that the East Rand was home to the likes of Vic and Willie Toweel, Gerrie Coetzee, Simon Skosana, Ray Botha, Billy Dollery, Pat Patrick, Harold Volbrecht and Sarel Aucamp?" asked veteran boxing historian Paul Beetson.

Jeff Ellis is the editor-in-chief of African Ring and for the life of him cannot recall a local match-up with as much electrifying appeal as the Oosthuizen/Lovett fight. "Frankly I'm extremely worried that we won't be able to accommodate all the people who will be streaming to Emperors Palace on the night" said Ellis, who will be re-launching his much sought after boxing magazine at the end of this month. "Appropriately I'll have Jared and Tommy on the cover" added Ellis.

Neutral observers have thus far been split as to the likely outcome of South Africa's first ever "Youth" world championship event. The Pettifer crystal ball anticipates a protracted battle of wills, and one in which we may see a seesaw battle in which both fighters take trips to the canvas. Fight expert Paul Hetz, formerly of Boxing Express agrees. "There is so much pride and passion riding on the result of this fight that it may feature a number of knockdowns before one fighter ultimately triumphs". That said, Emperors Palace is the place to be on July 11, 2009.

16 April 2009 — Terry Pettifer

Whenever you journey south from Johannesburg, towards the Turffontein racecourse and surrounding areas, you are entering one of South Africa's most famous regions insofar as professional boxing is concerned.

Indeed, the "south" as it is known throughout Gauteng, has a rich fistic heritage that traces back to the halcyon days of such legendary fighters as Willie Smith, Laurie Stevens, George Angelo, Ernie Eustice, Dougie Miller and Dave Carstens, as well as more recent heroes like Bruce McIntyre, Lionel Hunter and Anton Gilmore. Then too, several all-time amateur immortals such as Herbie Vermeulen, Len Leisching and Grant Webster also made their homes in the southern suburbs of Johannesburg, along with other vintage names that include Ralston Lewis, Jim Pentz, Ollie Matthews and many, many more!

In the tradition of this proud area, current light heavyweight sensation Jared "The Storm" Lovett (8-0, with 8 knockouts) means to further enrich the annals of boxing in the "south" when he takes on Tommy "Tommy Gun" Oosthuizen (9-0, 9 knockouts) at Emperors Palace on July 11, in a bout for the vacant IBO "Youth" world light heavyweight title.

"I'm extremely proud of being a boxer from the south and I'll be wearing my heart on my sleeve come July 11" said Lovett. No doubt that heart will be as stout as Lovett's Irish ancestors (on his father's side) and you can bet he'll be firing brimstone out of both eyes when he enters the ring. "I've been waiting for this fight since our amateur days" said Lovett, who makes no secret of his desire to smear Oosthuizen all over the canvas.

"Jared will come out smoking on June 11, and there is no way that Oosthuizen, who hails from the East Rand, will be able to withstand the leather-fisted storm that is ready to engulf him" said Lovett's trainer Colin Nathan.

Viewed as one of the most alluring local grudge fights in many years, the Oosthuizen Vs Lovett contest has already drawn incredible response from the boxing fraternity, with pundits split as to the likely result of this potentially fearsome confrontation. "The fact that they don't like each other adds to the overall appeal of the match" said African Ring editor-in-chief Jeff Ellis, who in conjunction with Golden Gloves Promotions CEO Rodney Berman has already been inundated with requests to obtain tickets.

"It's mind-boggling just how many people want to see this fight" said Ellis. "Indeed, although the bout will be screened LIVE by SuperSport, there are a legion of fight fans who won't settle for anything else other than tickets to the match. As such, I feel that Emperors Palace may find itself in the enviable position of knowing that substantially more seats are needed to accommodate what promises to be a record crowd".

And Oosthuizen? The son of former SA middleweight and junior middleweight champion Charles, this string-bean puncher is arguably the tallest and hardest hitter in the light heavyweight division, and his pallid complexion and almost apologetic good manners belie his ruthless efficiency once entering the roped square. "Tommy is like a human predator and Lovett won't know what hit him" said Oosthuizen's manager-trainer Harold Volbrecht. "In fact, I'll stake my reputation that this bout won't last five rounds!"

With both boxers scheduled to make personal appearances in the areas that they live, as well as courtesy visits to their respective schools, the stage has been set for one of the most unforgettable local contests in years and bookmakers are anticipating a flood of action in the countdown to the fight.

14 April 2009 — Terry Pettifer

Since Harold Volbrecht was one of the finest southpaws in the history of South African boxing, his expertise as a trainer can never be understated and it is the 'Hammer's keen boxing acumen that many believe could prove pivotal in the July 11 crunch fight between Thomas "Tommy Gun" Oosthuizen (9-0, 9 knockouts) and Jared "The Storm" Lovett (8-0, 8 knockouts) for the vacant IBO "Youth" world light heavyweight title at Emperors Palace.

"Volbrecht was one of the keenest southpaw brains in the business" said Golden Gloves Promoter Rodney Berman. "He will undoubtedly be coaching his southpaw charge, Oosthuizen, on how best to cope with Lovett's orthodox attack, but there is need for serious assessment when analysing this fight! Let's not forget that most of Lovett's boxing training in the past was done by his father Aubrey, who too was a southpaw and therefore knows the ropes where left handed fighters are concerned. Yes, it's true that Jared is now boxing under the auspices of Colin Nathan, but I have little doubt that he'll be consulting with Lovett senior in the weeks leading up to the fight. That in itself makes this an absolutely intriguing match."

Paul Hetz has been a boxing analyst for thirty five years and as a former contributor to Boxing Express makes no secret of his high regard for Volbrecht. "He was one of the top three lefties (southpaws) ever to have been produced in this country and knows more than most how to maximize a southpaw's strengths" said Hetz. "You only have to look at some of the top southpaws he coached, such as Mzukisi Sikali and Corrie Sanders to appreciate the wisdom that he departs. For me, Harold's involvement in this fight will prove to be the difference between victory and defeat."

Other experts, however, think differently and man-about-boxing Jeff Ellis believes that Jared Lovett's versatility and countless hours of sparring with his father Aubrey may level the playing field. "Lovett has fought a number of portsiders (another word for southpaw) and owns a paralyzing assortment of punches, especially the right hand, which as we know is the signature punch to beat a southpaw".

Another unnamed pundit was keen to draw our attention to what he believes is a huge misconception about fighting southpaws. "Some guys say that the way to beat a southpaw is by throwing right hands, but there is need for caution here. An orthodox boxer who lends himself to this long held belief has to be ever so careful of walking into a left hook, and as we all know, few fighters toss better left hooks than southpaws. You only have to think back to fighters like Elijah "Tap Tap" Makhatini, Daan Bekker and of course Corrie Sanders".

Trainer Colin Nathan recently stated that he views the July 11 clash as potentially, "An early night's work for Lovett". Moreover, Nathan added, "I respect Thomas as a puncher but I really cannot see him troubling Jared. My guy has got the style to whip him and I'll be surprised if the fight lasts longer than three rounds".

Meanwhile, Harold Volbrecht feels much the same about his boxer's chances and said, "Thomas is vastly underrated in terms of talent. So many people have said that he's purely a puncher, but they couldn't be more wrong. At age 21, he (Oosthuizen) is developing into an excellent boxer who can knock out an opponent in the blink of an eye". Then with an impish grin, the former SA welterweight champion concluded by saying, "So whatever you do on the night of July 11, don't blink!"

14 April 2009 — Terry Pettifer

Golden Gloves Promoter Rodney Berman believes that the "young guns" in his boxing consortium; Jared Lovett, Hekkie Budler, Thomas Oosthuizen, Ashley Dlamini, Octavius Mbira, Grant Fourie and Jackson Chauke, have lead the way to a resurgence of interest in the sport.

"Taking nothing away from star fighters like IBO junior lightweight champion Zolani Marali, Phillip Ndou, Bongani Mwelase, Simphiwe Vetyeka and Thomas Mashaba, our blossoming array of talent has fulfilled all expectations over the past number of months, and what with our realignment with Mzi Mnguni in the Eastern Cape, that number could substantially swell over the next six months" said Berman.

That fans have been stampeding for tickets at recent Emperors Palace tournaments, is indicative of the box-office appeal of boxers like Lovett, Budler and Ooisthuizen and Berman feels that the likes of Dlamini and Chauke are less than six bouts away from national acclaim. "I've been really surprised at how quickly Chauke and Dlamini have matured and they're both tremendous talents who could go on to lift international honours" said Berman.

And Mbira and Fourie? "Grant has been out of action for a while, but if he's ready to train down to junior lightweight, where his future ultimately rests, there's no reason why he cannot reach the top" said Berman. "Mbira is a sparkling talent, no question about it, but of late I've reason to believe he can perform a lot better than he's done in his last two bouts".

As it is, two of Berman's leading lights; Oosthuizen and Lovett will be slugging it out for the vacant IBO "Youth" world light heavyweight crown on July 11 at Emperors Palace in a big money bout that pairs two unbeaten starlets in a contest that has already captured the imagination of fight lovers from all corners of the country.

That Berman has vowed to retain the services of both fighters after what should be a splintering clash, is important, especially when one considers that both Oosthuizen and Lovett have obtained a three-year contract with lucrative rewards, irrespective of whom ultimately triumphs on the night. "As I said before, there'll be no real loser in this fight and that's not merely lip service, but an assertion based on past traditions within the Golden Gloves realm".

With Bongani Mwelase ready to fight an IBO world welterweight title eliminator in the USA in June, and bantamweight star Simphiwe Vetyeka preparing for his July 11 bout with Eric Barcelona for vacant IBO world honours, Berman relishes the fact that his recently re-inspired knockout ace, Phillip "The Timebomb" Ndou will also be featured at Emperors Palace on the July 11 bill.

"Ndou along with Vetyeka and Mwelase are vitally important to the goals mapped out by this consortium and naturally we'll have the added support of our aspiring young tigers like Budler, Chauke, Oosthuizen, Lovett and Dlamini amongst others".

Berman concluded by saying, "Moreover, we've been suitably impressed with the achievements of our crop of trainers, among them Colin Nathan and Harold Volbrecht, both of whom have vibrant stables of fighters. Indeed, besides the above-mentioned Class of 2009, there are a number of fledgling prospects lining up to join us and this augurs extremely well for the future".

09 April 2009 — Terry Pettifer

After his recent first round dismantling of an opponent who never knew what hit him, South Africa's Thomas "Tommy Gun" Oosthuizen (8-0, 8 knockouts) had fight fans feverishly speculating about a potential crunch meeting between him and Jared "The Storm" Lovett (7-0, 7 stoppages). Indeed, after Oosthuizen's extended run of knockout victories, Golden Gloves Promoter Rodney Berman was inspired to remark; "Both fighters earned rave reviews for their high voltage performances last year and they've continued to capture the imagination of fight buffs as they go along. Indeed, if these two splendid young fighters continue wiping out their opposition, it may become increasingly difficult to keep them apart".

Well, now it's official! Lovett and Oosthuizen will be locking horns on Saturday, July 11 at Emperors Palace in the most eagerly awaited local "grudge" fight since Pierre Coetzer fought Johnny du Plooy almost twenty years ago! Furthermore the vacant IBO "Youth" world light heavyweight crown will be on the line!

"The 22-year-old Lovett's performance against Fernando Vera (April 2 at Emperors Palace) was keenly analysed and in keeping with past local rivalries, like that of Kallie Knoetze vs Gerrie Coetzee, Johnny du Plooy vs Pierre Coetzer and Mike Holt vs Eddie Thomas, a bout between him and Oosthuizen really became a matter of WHEN not IF they would ultimately meet" added Berman.

It should be noted, however, that Oosthuizen at almost 6' 6" in height has mainly boxed as a super middleweight since turning professional and though his punching power is such that he has already been rated amongst the most frightening local hitters in South African ring history, his bout with Lovett will be in the light heavyweight class.

"Tommy is a natural super middleweight, but let's not forget he is only 20-years-old" said trainer Harold Volbrecht, who has little doubt that his young tiger will carry too much power for Lovett to handle. "Yes, I do believe that Thomas will, in time, fill out and he may very well end up being a cruiserweight, given the fact he's still so young" said Volbrecht. "But for now, we're certainly not remotely concerned about fighting Lovett. Moreover, Thomas would love it –pardon the pun – and is champing-at-the-bit to remove that sneer off his (Lovett) face, proving once and for all that he and not Lovett is really the hottest property in South African boxing".

Incidentally, the good-looking Lovett is equally comfortable boxing at both light heavyweight and cruiserweight and there has even been speculation that he may end up being a bona fide heavyweight.

Man-about-boxing Jeff Ellis makes no secret of his admiration for Oosthuizen's potency of clout, but insists that Lovett is the better all-around fighter. So too does Lovett's manager Brian Mitchell, who recently stated, "In terms of talent, Jared is by far the better boxer, but I have to admit that Thomas hits like apple-jack!. Jared cannot afford to stand toe-to-toe with this guy, because that could prove disastrous. Instead he'll need to chop Oosthuizen down systematically, behind that splintering variety of punches that have so far garnered one knockout after another".

Trainer Norman Hlabane, however, is vastly impressed with Oosthuizen's ability as a sharp-shooter and feels that there are very few fighters at his weight with so much raw power. "The kid is a devastating puncher and anyone he tags is in BIG trouble".

Boxing historian Rudy Dembskey feels that a bout between Lovett and Oosthuizen would be a "pick-em" fight that could turn on one punch. "Whoever lands first will win" said the seventy-something Dembskey. "But if I had a gun to my head, I'd say that Oosthuizen's reach and savagery may prove pivotal in the final outcome!"

Not so Lovett's mentor Colin Nathan, who in assessing a potential meeting between the two, said, "Jared is too polished and accomplished to be beaten by Thomas, but I admit that it's probably the most tantalizing possible local match up in many years". Golden Gloves matchmaker Ruben Rasodi, feels that this explosive encounter is the most alluring local match of the past two decades and expects to see a knock-em-down, drag-em-out encounter. "They are both incredible talents and I would not be bold enough to hazard a prediction of who will win".

Boxing writer Bongani Magasela came out strongly in favour of Lovett, who he believes is not only a brilliant prospect for world honours, but also extremely durable. "I saw Lovett absorb some thunderous blows from Ronnie Lategan and he took them really well. Conversely, at this point in time we don't really know whether Oosthuizen absorbs a solid crack to the chin, which he'd have to do if and when he fought Lovett. Having said that both fighters are tremendous talents and a bout between the two would be a real show-stopper event".

Style wise, however, Lovett (orthodox) and Oosthuizen (southpaw) are continents apart, and though it's true that both are murderous hitters, Oosthuizen is essentially a counter-puncher, while Lovett happens to be an aggressive boxer-puncher. "For Lovett the danger will be advancing into Oosthuizen's raging fists" said former Boxing Express editor Ron Ellis, "but by the same token, Oosthuizen cannot afford to lean away from Lovett's punches, because he'd have his head ripped off".

Another former writer, Paul Hetz, believes that the bout is about as intriguing as any in recent memory. "Why, it promises to be a brutal and passionate battle between two of the heaviest handed young fighters of the past thirty years, and believe me, they can punch! A winner? I'm putting my two bits on Oosthuizen to pick himself off the canvas before smashing his way to victory inside ten rounds".

One seasoned scribe who did not want to be mentioned by name, said, "Besides their respective prowess as power hitters, the essential ingredient that makes this such a blockbuster event is their natural dislike for each other. Hell, you only had to see how they glared at one another in previous press gatherings!"

So why is Berman matching two of his most electrifying ring talents at such an early stage in their careers? "It's simple really. Firstly there is an unprecedented demand for the fight and analytically assessed neither fighter will end up being a loser! Naturally what I've just said requires some explaining, because on the night only one of the boxers will emerge triumphant. Yet based on past experience, in contests of this type, the loser on the night sometimes goes on to become a bigger attraction than the winner" said Berman. "In fact, in terms of local 'superfights' we've traditionally seen the likes of Cassius Baloyi, Jacob Matlala and Kallie Knoetze extensively benefit from their respective losses to Phillip Ndou, Hawk Makepula and Gerrie Coetzee."

That the purse money for this light heavyweight classic will rival that of the Coetzer vs Du Plooy match, is noteworthy and Berman made no secret of the fact that the fighters will be dueling for a 60/40 split of the substantial pot.

"Then too, I'm guaranteeing the loser of this bout a three-year contract with Golden Gloves Promotions and a minimum of four bouts a year during which he'll earn purse monies in excess of that routinely paid to South African champions".

As a parting shot, Berman also said that the loser of the contest on June 13, would, if he returns to winning ways, be afforded a crack at a world title in time to come! In accordance with IBO rules for "Youth" world championship bouts, the two fighters will slug it out over a slated 10 rounds.

31 March 2009 — Terry Pettifer

While the main focus in boxing this week will be riveted on the outcome of the vacant IBO junior lightweight championship bout between three-time world champion Zolani "The Untouchable" Marali (19-2, 13 knockouts) and Mexico's Gamaliel Diaz (23-8-2, 10 knockouts) at Emperors Palace on Thursday night, three local heavyweights mean to steal more than their share of the thunder.

Indeed, besides Jake Els (9-1) who will be fighting Zimbabwe's Thamsanqa Dube (9-2) for the vacant WBA Pan African heavyweight crown on Thursday night at Emperors Palace, two heavyweight debutants; Robbie Lombard and Sheldon "Shotgun" human will be looking to make explosive starts to their careers in the punch-for-pat ranks. The two young heavyweights, who are 24 and 25 respectively feature on Jeff Ellis' African Ring Promotions heavyweight bonanza the night before at Emperors Palace (April 1) in a box-and-dine event that is close to being sold out.

Obviously the 34-year-old Els –who started his professional career fairly late – will be first in the pecking order and a victory over the heavier and bigger Dube could see him launch an exciting campaign in the dreadnought division that his trainer Harold volbrecht believes could culminate in an international title. "As far as heavyweights go, Jake is not old and I really feel that he could upset a number of the more fancied American contenders for world honours" said Volbrecht. An experienced veteran of the prize ring, Volbrecht added, "But lets be frank, he (Els) will need another eight to ten fights before that can happen".

As for Lombard and Human, it's not hard to appreciate the excitement that has been generated by their entry into the professional ranks. "We haven't had a really explosive heavyweight hope since Corrie Sanders burst onto the scene during the nineties" said Jeff Ellis, who incidentally believes that the flaxen-haired Lombard can be the best local heavyweight since Gerrie Coetzee. "This kid has it all!" enthused Ellis. "Why, he can jab, hook and throw right handers with explosive force and I'd be surprised if he doesn't get his career off to a blistering start when he meets Stephen Castle on Wedneday night." As for Human, this broad-shouldered son and grandson of boxers, is champing-at-the-bit ahead of his debut on the same bill, when he faces former amateur heavyweight champion Johnny Mulder over 4 rounds.

25 March 2009 — Terry Pettifer

Whenever one thinks back on the all-time great fighters from Mexico, it's inevitable that certain names spring to mind. Legendary warriors like Julio Cesar Chavez, Carlos Zarate, Miguel Canto, Salvador Sanchez, Ricardo Lopez and Ruben Olivares were all immortals of the fistic art and it follows that another Mexican fighter, Gambiel Diaz, will have a glut of role models in mind when he climbs into the ring at Emperors Palace on April 2 to challenge Zolani Marali for the vacant IBO junior lightweight crown.

"Gambiel is mindful of the sterling achievements of his illustrious predecessors and means to claim a spot on the roll-call of great pugilists from his country" said US boxing promoter Art Pellulo. Mind you, Diaz won't find the going pleasant when he faces South Africa's Marali next week and despite the abundance of self belief he carries into this impending war, the 28-year-old Mexican must know that he's in for one helluva fight! "He (Diaz) is no fool and he knows all about your three-time world champion" said a spokesman for the Diaz camp. "But believe me, Gambiel is fully prepared for what should be a fiercely waged contest and will certainly be aiming at scoring a knockout".

With both Art Pellulo of Banner Promotions and IBO President Ed Levine at ringside on the night, indications are that the two fighters will be locking horns with venom aforethought and as Golden Gloves Promoter Rodney Berman so aptly put it, "This bout won't be for the squeamish at heart".

It is widely felt that although Diaz is three years younger than his South African opponent, age won't have a bearing on the final result, and Marali's edge in height and reach will arguably be negated by the Mexican boxer's greater experience. "Should Marali manage to beat Diaz, thereby winning a fourth world championship, we'll immediately be holding talks with Banner Promotions with a view to him (Marali) heading an ESPN bill in the land of the dollar" qualified Berman.

So who wins, the more seasoned though younger Diaz, or the taller and harder hitting Marali? Experts cannot seem to make their minds up and of a total eleven tipsters who were interviewed this morning, only three went out on a limb by picking Marali! The others all had their share of "IF'S and BUT'S" that clearly points to a grueling and protracted battle. As man-about-boxing Jeff Ellis said, "Marali is undoubtedly under-rated by how much do we really know about Diaz? He comes from Mexico, however, and when last can you recall a soft touch from that part of the world?" It's also particularly noteworthy that one long-serving scribe hedged his bets by questioning Marali's strategy of counter-punching against a shorter and likely more robust opponent. "You don't pick up points by planning escape routes for twelve rounds" growled the writer in question. "If Zolani is going to win, he'll have to take this toughie from south of the border on in the trenches and jar the lights out of him with two-fisted uppercuts and hooks. But if he elects to become too circumspect, he'll be handed a brutal hiding. It's really as simple as that!"

Gambiel arrives in South Africa tomorrow, before attending Friday's pre-fight medical and press conference at Emperors Palace.

25 March 2009 — Terry Pettifer

The WBC have installed Mexico's Gambiel Diaz as their # 13 contender for world junior lightweight honours and Golden Gloves Promoter Rodney Berman was at pain to underline the importance of his upcoming clash with South Africa's Zolani "The Untouchable" Marali at Emperors Palace on April 2. "With Diaz occupying the No-13 slot on the WBC junior lightweight ratings and Australia's Billy Dib (whom everyone agreed was awarded the most charitable of decisions over Marali last year in Australia) being ranked #6 in the featherweight division, it stands to reason that the result of this vacant IBO junior lightweight title shootout at Emperors Palace will have an ideal chance to break into the upper-tier of international recognition" said Berman.

More than that, however, the Marali camp have clearly recognized the challenge that awaits them and notwithstanding Diaz's high world rating, the South African camp are confident of scoring a knockout. "Zolani is the finest boxer-puncher to have come out of this country since the days of Dingaan Thobela and his level of natural skill has never really been exploited" said Nathan. "Therefore I'm reasonably sure that he (Marali) will score a knockout win on the night of April 2".

American analysts are nevertheless more dubious of the South African's talent and methinks it will take a decisive victory over Diaz to cement what Berman and Nathan have been proposing to the media over the past two months.

"Let's be quite frank" said Berman. "The Yanks are difficult to convince and it will take nothing less than a scintillating triumph on the part of Marali to underscore what I've been saying all along: that Marali is the finest junior lightweight in this country bar none".

Not that a particular organization's world ranking holds a critical sway in the modern world of professional boxing and it's noteworthy that the fight itself and NOT the sanctioning organization is what the major television moguls in the United States and elsewhere lend their weight to.

"The IBO have, however, made gigantic strides of late and I feel that it's of considerable significance that the organization is promoting the next multi-million dollar fight in America, namely that between Manny Pacquiao and Ricky Hatton" concluded Berman.

24 March 2009 — Terry Pettifer

Has Jared "The Storm" Lovett's supposedly "bad boy" image increased his drawing power at the box-office? This writer was asked the question by an experienced boxing oracle ahead of the unbeaten Southern Suburbs boxer's forthcoming outing against Argentine's Fernando Vera. A hard hitting drawcard with devilishly good looks and an army of fans, Lovett's entry into the world of professional boxing in 2008 has evoked as much applause as criticism, though one has to say that the latter has been exaggerated beyond proportion.

Yes, the 21-year-old Lovett has had his fair share of "street fights" and there are arguably as many patrons waiting to see him get a good whupping as there are those screaming for him to win, but take nothing away from "The Storm", this kid can really fight! Indeed, besides winning the BSA "Prospect of the Year" award, ahead of a solid group of competitors I may add, Lovett is the one burgeoning local fighter people queue to watch! Why, a recent boxing exhibition in which he skipped, sparred and shadow boxed drew an impressive gathering at a Glenvista shopping mall and despite the inclusion of several other high-profile boxing stars on the day, it was easily noticed that Jared was the one boxer mobbed by well-wishers, curiosity seekers and autograph hunters. Trained by his Irish-South African father Aubrey since his earliest days as an amateur, Lovett is now boxing under the watchful eye of up-and-coming trainer Colin Nathan and it's no secret that Jared's popularity amongst his fellow stable companions has been especially eye-opening.

"When Jared's around there's a definite aura that is synonymous with potential superstars and although I have a number of other boxing magnets under my wing, like Hekkie Budler, Octavius Mbira, Ashley Dlamini, Grant Fourie and the electrifying Jackson Chauke, there can be no doubting Jared's special brand of magnetism" said Nathan. "Moreover, he's a splendid motivator when it comes to his level of camaraderie and the other chaps really appreciate having him in the same gymnasium".

Now who was it that said, "good guys come last?".

24 March 2009 — Terry Pettifer

As a rule Mexican fighters aren't very boisterous, preferring instead to let their fists do the talking. Yet Gambiel Diaz (23-8-2, with 10 knockouts) is bubbling with confidence ahead of his much anticipated IBO junior lightweight title shootout with Zolani "The Untouchable" Marali at Emperors Palace in South Africa on April 2. Indeed through his interpreter, the rugged Diaz said yesterday that he would knock out his taller rival from South Africa and thus claim the vacant IBO junior lightweight strap. "Gambiel has no doubt that he will win the title" said his spokesman. "In fact he is looking way past this fight to another tilt at the WBC world title later in the year".

The hard hitting Mexican lost to Humberto Soto in a bout for the WBC Interim junior lightweight crown late last year. "That fight was stopped in the eleventh round because Gambiel had suffered some bad facial damage but he (Diaz) feels sure that a return match with Soto will end in his favour and your man Marali will have to be removed from the reckoning in order for that to happen" concluded Diaz's manager.

Diaz is certainly no stranger to championship boxing and holds two victories over former world titleholder Ramon Guerro. "If you've never seen Diaz fight you're in for a treat" said US boxing researcher George Blake. "The guy comes forward throwing punches at twenty to the dozen and he has a heart like a lion. I'd say your boxer has a really tough fight on his hands".

American promoter Art Pellulo concurs, saying, "Diaz is a livewire and he'll really pull out all the stops in an effort to win the IBO title." Pellulo, who is the business associate of Golden Gloves Promotions CEO Rodney Berman, will be at ringside to take in the action and providing the South African wins, has together with Berman formulated some exciting outings for Marali in America.

Not that South Africa's Zolani Marali (19-2, with 13 knockouts) has any fear or trembling at the prospect of winning a fourth world title. "Diaz doesn't worry me and if advanced reports are correct, he's a come forward fighter who likes to mix it in the trenches. That's good, because that type of fighter is tailor made for my counter-punching southpaw style" said Marali.

Trainer Colin Nathan wholeheartedly agrees. "Zolani is one of the most clinical sharpshooters in the game and the fact that he's already lifted three world titles emphasizes as much. Then too, my guy has whipped some pretty stiff opposition amongst them Pastor Humberto Maurin, Dario Lombardo, Hevinson Herrera and Jean-Marie Codet".

Experts agree that Marali was blatantly "robbed" of his IBO junior lightweight crown in Australia last year when Billy Dib was awarded a scandalous 12-round decision and though the IBO ruled that a rematch take place, Dib relinquished the crown rather than face the South African a second time.

At age 31, Marali is three years older than Diaz and at 5' 11" is two inches taller. Diaz will be arriving in South Africa on Thursday in order to suitably acclimatize for the contest.

IBO President Ed Levine will also be attending the tournament and indications are that the venue will boast a full-house crowd.

NB: THE PRESS CONFERENCE AND PRE-FIGHT MEDICAL TAKE PLACE AT EMPERORS PALACE ON FRIDAY AT 12-NOON.

23 March 2009 — Terry Pettifer

South Africa's Zolani "Untouchable" Marali was bitterly disappointed when his IBO junior lightweight title bout –scheduled for Emperors Palace on March 21- was aborted due to his opponent Fahsai Sakkreenin's refusal to undergo a compulsory blood test. As it turned out, Sakkreenin has hepatitis-b which immediately disqualifies him from boxing professionally. But now, after two days of frantic searching for a suitable replacement, the organizers of the tournament, Golden Gloves Promotions, have taken a calculated gamble by signing Mexico's Gamaliel Diaz (23-8-2, 10 knockouts) to oppose their three-time world champion from South Africa.

"Diaz is a formidable opponent who owns a pair of wins over former world titleholder Ramon Guerro" said GG CEO Rodney Berman, after finalizing details for the vacant IBO junior lightweight championship bout, which will take place at Emperors Palace on April 2. "Moreover, in his last bout, Diaz was stopped in the 11th round by the dangerous Humberto Soto in a contest for the Interim WBC super featherweight crown" added Berman. Having said as much, Diaz, at age 28 has a fine resume as a professional and qualifies as a respected puncher to boot. Indeed, he has fashioned a number of impressive victories since turning professional back in 1998, which includes wins over Juan Velasquez, Elio Rojas, Ramon Guerro and Naoto Fujiwara.

"Don't be mislead, this guy Diaz can really fight and his loss to Soto belies the fact that he was putting up one heck of a fight until the bout was stopped on a technical knockout in the eleventh round" said US fight critic George Blake. "An orthodox boxer with a typical Mexican style of roughing up opponents at close range, Diaz is definitely championship material and his record is deceptive in terms of what he brings to a contest. Tell you're guy Marali to expect a torrid fight from a man who seldom takes his foot off the pedal" concluded Blake.

Born in Tacambaro, Michoacan, Mexico, the hard hitting Diaz has halted nearly 50% of his rivals and owns a savage left hook, right hand combination. At 5' 9" (175 cm) he is a little shorter than Marali, but besides owning a fine jab, has loads of heart. In a nutshell, the man from Mexico has laudable credentials and is rated amongst the WBC's ranks of championship contenders.

"In terms of action, Diaz will give Marali plenty to think about and it will be extremely interesting to see how our man handles this rough-and-tough competitor from the land of the tortilla" said Berman.

Berman also emphasized Golden Gloves Promotions pledge to maintain their pursuance of excellence and despite the planet's current financial status, said that South Africa's most successful boxing consortium will continue to strive for a marquee level of entertainment. "We owe it to both our sponsors and the public to ensure that our tournaments at Emperors Palace feature the finest fighters at our disposal and although the cancellation of our March 21 bill was costly in terms of revenue, we will never jeopardize our reputation as a promotional concern".

Meanwhile, SA's "Prospect of the Year", Jared "The Storm" Lovett will now be matched with an opponent who is no stranger to these shores. In fact, the man he'll face on April 2 at Emperors Palace, is none other than Fernando Vera, who in 2005, fought an exciting 8-round draw with current SA light heavyweight champion Daniel Bruwer. "Vera gave Bruwer all he could handle when he last visited our country, and a bout against the rapidly maturing Lovett will be an ideal indicator as to Lovett's level of improvement" said man-about-boxing Jeff Ellis.

"Make no mistake, Vera is a far better opponent than Lovett's originally scheduled opponent, Anon Donpradit, who jetted out of South Africa with Fahsai Sakkreenin a few days ago."

• FOOTNOTE: It is interesting to note that replacement opponents have historically posted some unexpected upsets over fancied fighters in the past, not the least being Elijah Makhatini's sensational defeat of Charlie Weir, at a time when the "Silver Assassin" was knocking them over with almost monotonous regularity. "It's always a risk bringing out a replacement fighter at short notice, as was also the case when the high flying Kallie Knoetze was temporally derailed by a comparatively unheralded Argentine named Raul Gorosito" said Ellis. "Lets hope this is not the case on April 2 at Emperors Palace".

18 March 2009 — Terry Pettifer

Following the cancellation of this coming Saturday night's "UNTOUCHABLE" boxing event at Emperors Palace, due to three-time world champion Zolani Marali's opponent Fahsai Sakkreenin admitting to having hepatitis-b, Golden Gloves Promoter Rodney Berman believes that the rescheduled tournament on April 2 will be even more of a blockbuster event.

"That's a fact" said Berman, after leaving Tuesday's press conference at Emperors Palace. "Indeed, we have now identified a fighter who'll arguably give Zolani Marali a far greater test that the man from Thailand was likely to do." And while Berman is playing it 'tight lipped' until Friday's press conference at a venue yet to be announced, indications are that the opponent Marali is likely to face is highly recommended in fistic circles throughout the globe. "We're determined to test Zolani to the full in this forthcoming match" added Berman. "How else would he convince the skeptics that he's the best junior lightweight in South Africa as well as one of the finest boxers at his weight on the planet".

Yet while the likes of Marali, Jake Els, Hekkie Budler, Jared Lovett, Jackson Chauke and Octavius Mbira will all still feature on the April 2 extravaganza, will have still feature on the April 2 bill, fight fans should not forget that Emperors Palace will also be staging another tournament –per courtesy of African Ring Promotions –the night before, on April 1, when an eagerly awaited Box & Dine event takes place which includes the likes of Bazil Ray, Bull Muravha, Sheldon "Shotgun" Human, Thomas "Tommy Gun" Oosthuizen and Robbie Lombard.

"The inclusion of two of the most talked about heavyweight debutants in recent times; Human and Lombard, has ensured that both tournaments will elicit tremendous box-office appeal and I fully two rousing back-to-back events" said Jeff Ellis of African Ring.

That fans are already clamoring for tickets to both tournaments is a clear indication that Emperors Palace will enjoy a "double impact" of spectator support two nights in a row and since the product mix leaves little to be desired, the "Mecca of SA Boxing" is sure to be a beehive of activity over the next two weeks.

One noteworthy fight critic summed it up perfectly as your writer accompanied him to his car after Tuesday's press conference.

"I'd say you guys have achieved a double whammy this time around", he smiled. "After all, when last did we see two tournaments in two days, and with such a splendid array of talent to boot".

For once, this writer was left speechless and merely nodded in agreement.

16 March 2009 — Terry Pettifer

One year ago we were all bemoaning the dearth of heavyweight boxers in South Africa! The days of Gerrie Coetzee, Kallie Knoetze, Johnny du Plooy, Pierre Coetzer and Corrie Sanders were gone, seemingly never to return, and despite the crop of local dreadnoughts who were bravely manning the division, lets face it: the heavyweights were a pretty ordinary bunch.

That has all changed, however, so much so that there is now a long line of heavyweight prospects, ready to form an impression. Most notably, there's a blonde-haired giant from Pretoria named Robbie Lombard, whose prowess in the amateur ranks made him easily definable as a potential star, and advanced reports indicate that the good-looking 24-year-old is possibly a champion in the making. Mind you, we wont have long to find out, though, since Lombard makes his professional debut on Jeff Ellis' African Ring bill at Emperors Palace on April 1. Lombard faces Stephen Castle on the night and the portents signify a full-house crowd there to greet him.

"Castle is a good test for a fighter like Lombard, and providing my guy deals with him in impressive fashion, I believe we could have the next heavyweight drawcard on our books" said Golden Gloves Promoter Rodney Berman.

Then there's Sheldon "Shotgun" Human, another newcomer, who at 24 could become a thrill-a-minute crowd pleaser, particularly with his booming right hand punch. Human, who's the grandson of former amateur and professional heavyweight boxer  Eddie Human, will meet another young heavyweight debutant on Ellis' bill and is one the fighters whom promoter Rodney Berman will be focusing a great deal of attention on. And Jared Lovett? South Africa's "Prospect of the Year" is purportedly rapidly outgrowing the cruiserweight ranks and at age 21 could develop into a fully-fledged heavyweight. Nicknamed "The Storm", Lovett has the skill, good looks and power to become a massive box-office magnet in the months ahead.

But let's not lose sight of Brakpan-based Jake Els, who although 34, is only now starting to realize his tremendous potential. "Heavyweights mature late" said trainer Harold Volbrecht, "and Jake is a typical example of that. Take it from me, this guy has still got another four to five years ahead of him and I think he can surprise a great many people in the next eighteen months".

As it is, Els gets a great opportunity of furthering his ambitions, when he fights Zimbabwe's Thamsanqa Dube on Saturday night (March 21) at Emperors Palace, for the vacant WBA Pan African heavyweight title."

16 March 2009 — Terry Pettifer

South Africa's Hekkie Budler can become the "biggest little man" in world boxing! So says Golden Gloves Promoter Rodney Berman ahead of Saturday night's GREE-AIR Conditioners fistic extravaganza at Emperors Palace! The 21-year-old Budler is unbeaten as a professional and if he succeeds in lifting the vacant IBO Pan African junior flyweight crown against Charity Mukondelelei on Saturday evening, he'll be fighting for the vacant IBO world junior flyweight title on June 13 at the same arena.

"Budler is the most exciting junior flyweight that this country has produced since the days of Baby Jake Matlala" said Berman. A humble young man who breeds Pythons as his hobby, Budler was a sensational amateur and his non-stop, all-action style has made him one of the most exciting young fighters in South Africa today.

Why even the much loved Jake Matlala was even there to congratulate Hekkie when he won his first bout in the professional ranks at Emperors Palace. "Hekkie and Matlala are about the same height (4' 10") and there are definite similarities in terms of style. "Yes, and like Jake, the fair-haired Hekkie is what I call a 'high octane' fighter whose withering brand of punching is both sensational and extremely effective" said man-about-boxing Jeff Ellis.

That the quiet-spoken Budler has the talent to compete at the highest level of his profession, is as yet uncertain, but promoter Berman believes that his charge can go on to become one of the most sought after junior flyweights on the planet. "When a guy fights like he does, pounding away with a relentless barrage of punches, coming fast and furious from all angles, it's reasonable to feel that he could capture the imagination of pundits in the USA and Britain" said Berman. Then too, Berman's US business associate Art Pellulo, who arrives in South Africa later this week, believes that Budler reminds him of a Mexican-type warrior. "The Mexicans are known for being essentially aggressive and they generally thrive in the bantam and featherweight divisions" said Pellulo.

Berman concluded by saying, "Its ironical, but the smallest fighter in this country could arguably become in time the biggest name in South African boxing. Wouldn't that be something?"
It most certainly would!

11 March 2009 — Terry Pettifer

Man-about-boxing Jeff Ellis isn't easily impressed, so when he phoned this scribe seemingly breathless, I knew that something had happened to take the starch out of one of South Africa's most experienced and knowledgeable boxing men. In fact Ellis, who promotes under the banner of African Ring Promotions, had just attended a sparring session featuring former amateur heavyweight star Robbie Lombard, who will make his professional debut on Ellis's April 2 "Box-and-Dine" event at Emperors Palace. "I've just seen the new Gerrie Coetzee" exclaimed an excited Ellis. "Believe me, you guys at Golden Gloves have gold in your hands" added Ellis, who has been around the fight game long enough to know the difference between over-hyped prospects and genuine talent. A man who fought the likes of Kallie Knoetze and Jimmy Abbott and sparred with Gerrie Coetzee, Johnny du Plooy, Pierre Coetzer and Mike Schutte, the affable Ellis is one of the finest judges of talent that I know, and when he gushed superlatives after seeing the 24-year-old Lombard in action, this scribe was suitably impressed..

"This kid is the goods!" said Ellis. "He can box…punch…move and he seems to have the heart of a lion. What more could anyone ask for?" A chin? "I think by having watched him get hit on the button that Robbie can take it, and naturally that's a huge bonus" concluded Ellis.

Promoter Rodney Berman was also enlightened as to Ellis' advanced opinion of a Pretoria heavyweight who seems destined to follow in the footsteps of other Jacaranda City stars as Corrie Sanders, Kallie Knoetze, Pierre Coetzer and Jimmy Richards. "By the way Jeff is talking we could have another world heavyweight champion in the making" said Berman when I phoned him. "I'm really looking forward to seeing him in action".

Trained and managed by former national welterweight champion Harold Volbrecht, the fair-haired Lombard certainly looks the part and at 6' 3" is the same height as the incomparable Muhammad Ali and tips the scales at around 105 kg.

"Robbie has a brilliant left jab" said Volbrecht at a recent press gathering, and judging by the way the most recent of his heavyweight signings (Sanders was also coached by Volbrecht) worked out this afternoon, the "Hammer" is predicting a glowing future for the heavily-muscled Pretorian. "He is now starting to perfect his combinations and I've noticed that he has a trip-hammer left hook and brutal right hand" said Harold, before adding, "yes he could be the goods, but lets just wait and see".

In the tradition of former local heavyweight stars like Coetzee, Coetzer, Sanders and Knoetze, the hard-hitting Lombard cannot wait to showcase his potential, and if Jeff Ellis' opinion is to be respected, South Africa has its next great heavyweight hope. Nevertheless, like Volbrecht himself said, let's wait and see!

9 March 2009 — Terry Pettifer

They call him "Untouchable" and the moment he enters the fistic arena, Zolani Marali, oozes the charisma and confidence so essential in the make-up of a star.

At age 31, Marali (19-2, 13 knockouts) also has two other assets which clearly define his value as a fighter: class and power! A rap artist with magnetic box-office appeal, this highly intelligent young man knows where he's going and intends realizing his ultimate dream of unifying the world junior lightweight crown.

"I'm out to prove that I can beat anyone in the world, and it's safe to say that I'm now a man on a mission" said Marali at a recent press gathering. Presently trained by Colin Nathan, the surprisingly tall (5' 11") Marali has an abundance of natural talent and fires his leather-encased bullets with venom aforethought. "If he hits you, you know you've been hit!" groaned one beaten opponent, while holding a sponge to his maltreated countenance.

A former three-time world champion: IBO junior featherweight, WBF junior lightweight and IBO junior lightweight, Marali was blatantly "robbed" of the latter championship in Newcastle, Australia last year when he was adjudged to have lost on points to Billy Dib, in a 12-round bout that evoked some of the most scathing criticism in recent times. Why even the Australian media roundly slammed the result, with one critic calling the result "a scandalous miscarriage of justice".

"I know and Dib knows who won that fight and so too does the rest of the world!" said an irate Marali afterwards.

With Dib having relinquished the IBO junior lightweight title, rather than face Marali in a return match, the championship is again vacant, but only until March 21, when after twelve rounds or one explosive minute, a new winner will be crowned!

Mind you, some experts feel that victory may be hard won as the man opposing our gallant warrior, Fahsai Sakkreenin of Thailand, is a boxer with credible assets and a record that speaks of only one defeat in 24 bouts.

Indeed, Sakkreenin's only defeat was in April 2005, and he's subsequently won 18 fights on the trot, 7 by knockouts. At 5' 7" he's far shorter than Marali and will arguably seek to reap his rewards by fighting on the inside against a nut-brown opponent with an albatross-like reach.

Marali, however, is a good infighter and his uppercuts and hooks can hurt and torture an opponent who comes straight at him. No, if Sakkreenin is to win, he'll need guile, speed and finesse and while he has 9 knockouts to his credit, experts agree that the man from Thailand is no wielder of instant destruction. Punchers are born, right?

My two-bits are, however, on the towering Marali to score a resounding victory, with the end in sight after seven or eight explosive rounds. "I want universal recognition as the finest junior lightweight in the world" the South African recently announced, and amidst the chandelier splendour of Emperors Palace Casino, Zolani Marali could take the first of many steps to attain that goal.

9 March 2009 — Terry Pettifer

Jake Els (9-1, 8 knockouts) looks the part of a rough-and-ready stuntman, accustomed as it were to the bruising obligations of that profession. Yet looks can be deceiving and Els' recently acquired manager-trainer Harold Volbrecht assures us that his powerfully built charge has the makings of a fine heavyweight. "Jake is in his early thirties, which is fine for a heavyweight, and though he only joined me last year, I've already corrected a number of things that impeded his initial progress as a fighter" said Volbrecht. While the former SA welterweight champion wouldn't elaborate on just what "things" he was alluding to, conditioning has been pivotal in restructuring the aspiring heavyweight's prospects. A fair boxer, Els can nevertheless punch and Volbrecht has him hitting the body with far greater intensity than he did earlier in his 9 bout career. "Look, he's comparatively short for a heavyweight" explained Volbrecht, while Els drilled the big bag in their sweaty gymnasium. "Because of that I have laid a great deal of emphasis on Jake working the mid-section of his opponents, much like shorter fighters usually do". The results of Volbrecht's work have undoubtedly paid dividends, and in his most recent outing, against Bully Muravha, the bull-like Els looking a lot stronger and better balanced than in previous fights.

Critics, however, are still mindful of the manner in which national heavyweight champion Osborne Machimana overwhelmed Els inside five rounds during their championship bout in August 2007. "Jake was relatively inexperienced at that point in his career and besides being substantially outweighed, he made some basic mistakes that cost him dearly" said Volbrecht. "Why before meeting Osborne (who later stopped former world heavyweight champion Corrie Sanders in the opening round), the guy (Els) had only had seven fights, all of which he won, and six inside the distance. To my way of thinking that title bout should only have taken place once Jake became a seasoned professional, or at least after a dozen or so fights"

Els turned professional in 2005, by halting Bennie Liebenberg in the opening round, and he subsequently added the scalps of Terrence Anthony (TKO 2), Pieter Cronje (W 4), Phillip Bekker (KO 2), Mark Strydom (TKO 3), Collice Mutizwa (KO 4) and Wiseman Dlomo (KO 2). After losing to Machimana, he teamed up with Volbrecht and has rebounded with impressive victories over Tyrone Churchill (TKO 1) and Bully Muravha (TKO 2).

How Els will shape against Zimbabwe's Thamsanqa Dube (8-2) is open to question, but with Volbrecht holding the reins, it's my opinion that the ruggedly handsome South African will take home his first ever championship belt.

9 March 2009 — Terry Pettifer

Possibly South Africa's most electrifying junior flyweight in recent memory, Hekkie "The Hexecutioner" Budler (9-0) is one fight away from challenging for the IBO world junior flyweight title. But first he has to beat Charity Mukondelei (7-6) here tonight and capture the vacant IBO Pan African junior flyweight crown.

"A baby-faced miniature cyclone with two of the busiest little fists in the business" is the way my daughter Dempsine described Budler, and she wasn't far off the mark!

A former amateur star, Budler was an instant hit in the professional ranks and all of his bouts have attracted sizable support, so much so, that one overjoyed patron at Emperors Palace recently dubbed him "Kid Emperor"

And at age 21, Budler could be exactly that: the next emperor of the junior flyweight division. Style wise Budler is a non-stop punching machine, and while he was overly hasty in his earlier fights, he has now refined his whirlwind attack with tactical expertise, while still ripping home damaging punches to body and head at twenty-to-the-dozen. Wow!

9 March 2009 — Terry Pettifer

Chauke (2-0) was this country's only entrant at the most recent Olympic Games and while unsuccessful, he has easily adjusted to the professional ranks, establishing himself as one of the most fiery and fast-punching flyweights seen in South Africa in many a year. Trained by Colin Nathan, he could well be ready for an international outing in 2010, where his whiplash flurries and precision jabs should garner favour amongst ever hard-bitten American analysts.

As for Mbira (2-0), its easy to understand his former amateur trainer Aubrey Lovett's excitement, because we've seen precious few local boxers with as impressive an array of punches as this multi-skilled athlete. "Octavius can box…he can punch…he can dance and he can take it! He's very, very special" said Mbira's professional mentor Colin Nathan. Up until now everyone concurs with that statement.