30 June 2009 — Terry Pettifer

Pre-fight bantering and bluster are an acceptable part of the fight trade, but today's verbal exchanges between Lovemore Ndou and his namesake Phillip Ndou, ahead of their vacant IBO world welterweight title bout at Emperors Palace on July 11, went far beyond the parameters of hyperbole! Indeed, if the pre-advanced sermons between these two world renowned pugilists are anything to go by, then we're in for one of the most bitterly waged fights ever seen in a South African ring. Caustic comments indubitably fuelled what promises to be a fierce and unrelenting battle between two homespun pugilists who grew up within a stones throw of each other.

Former amateur team mates, the two Ndou's obviously realize that defeat could mean the end of the road for one of them, that is insofar as the international stage is concerned. Lovemore, aged 37 is an established international campaigner whose robust fists earned him an IBF world junior welterweight crown, and he made no secret of the loathing he has for his more charismatic rival. "This guy can only talk crap and I'm gonna knock the shit out of him on the night" fumed Lovemore. This after listening to Phillip blabber on about how he'd take his former amateur team captain to the cleaners.

It didn't stop there, and the Australian based Lovemore even saw fit to stand up and invite Phillip to a fight there and then. "Listen I'm still your f... captain and if you're not careful I'll call the zoo-keepers to lock you up." Then brandishing a colourfully designed certificate that confirmed Phillip being a 'rabbit', the shorter and more experienced Lovemore presented the "Timebomb" with a furry toy replica of the creature. "Keep this and remember that you are a rabbit" he snarled.

Having absorbed the fiery outbursts of his opponent, Phillip then proceeded to ensure Lovemore that he'd give him the worst drubbing of his life. "You are old" he said, "but there is no respect for old people in the ring. I'll knock you out!"

"Who the f— do you think you're talking to" Lovemore countered, "pinocchio?" While both Ndou's were engaged in their clamorous threats, the visibly shaken assembly appeared uncertain whether the two fighters would actually come to blows.

Man-about-boxing Jeff Ellis was heard to say, "Man, these guys can't wait to rip and tear at each other". Lovemore, however, was clearly the more incensed of the two, and with emotions simmering just below boiling point, irately snapped, "Listen big mouth not even Jesus will help you win this fight".

At that, former two-time world junior lightweight champion Brian Mitchell, recently returned from his induction into the International Boxing Hall of Fame, decided that enough was enough, and his face clouded with concern, made his way to the press conference entrance. "I didn't appreciate Lovemore's bringing religion into the argument" Mitchell later said.

Meanwhile SA bantamweight champion Simphiwe Vetyeka, who had been sitting quietly listening to the vitriolic exchange of words, humbly pledged his firm desire to make his people proud by defeating Eric Barcelona of the Philippines in their bout for the vacant IBO bantamweight title.

Trainers Harold Volbrecht, who'll be in Lovemore's corner on the night of the fight, and Mick Castellan, who is Phillip's mentor (though Welcome Ncita will be assisting him in the corner) pensively declined to comment after their respective charge's had concluded their 'hate talk' but methinks they realized that anything they may have added would only have furthered inflamed what had been the most belligerent (some said ill-tasting) press conferences held at South Africa's 'Mecca of Boxing'.

Everyone agreed though, that Ndou versus Ndou will be free of any semblance of brotherly love!

29 June 2009 — Terry Pettifer

The Gree-Air Conditioners TRIPLE THUNDER bill for July 11 at Emperors Palace casino has officially been announced, and besides the three highly explosive world title bouts on the roster (Lovemore Ndou VS Phillip Ndou-vacant IBO welterweight title), Jared Lovett VS Tommy Oosthuizen-vacant IBO Youth light heavyweight title) and Simpiwe Vetyeka VS Eric Barcelona (vacant IBO bantamweight title), fight fans will also have the additional bonus of witnessing hotshot junior flyweight contender Hekkie Budler have his last outing before challenging for the IBO world junior flyweight crown on September 1 at the same venue.

"We're giving the unbeaten BUdler an opportunity to flex his muscles before his appointed date with destiny" said Golden Gloves Promoter Rodney Berman. Mindful that any bout prior to the flaxen-haired Budler's world championship event presents danger to the "Hexecutioner" (as Budler is known), Berman added, "Unfortunately professional boxing is an extremely demanding sport and Hekkie realizes that he needs a 'warm up' before fighting for the title. As such, we're taking a calculated risk on the night. Having said as much, this kid (Budler) is an enormously talented fighter and we expect him to win in style."

While the Lovett-Oosthuizen and Ndou-Ndou bouts have formed the nucleus of public attention, leading up to this illustrious event, the Vetyeka-Barcelona bout has recently evoked its fair share of comment, and experts agree that the stage is set for one of the most alluring world championship tournaments in years!

Renowned sceptic Paul Hetz went as far as saying, "Berman has parceled together a feat of action, and no one in attendance will go home hungry".

The entire bill, in order of appearance, reads as follows:

20h00- Lightweight-4 Rounds
THOMPSON MAKWENA VS THULANE MBATHA

Vacant IBO Bantamweight World Title-12 Rounds
ERIC BARCELONA (Philippines) VS SIMPHIWE VETYEKA (SA)

Junior Flyweight-8 Rounds
HEKKIE BUDLER VS KHANYAKUNDE MUKANSI

Vacant IBO World Welterweight Title-12 Rounds
LOVEMORE NDOU VS PHILLIP NDOU

Vacant IBO Youth World Light Heavyweight Title-12 Rounds
TOMMY OOSTHUIZEN VS JARED LOVETT

26 June 2009 — Terry Pettifer

With so much intense interest revolving around the Jared Lovett versus Tommy Oosthuizen vacant IBO Youth world light heavyweight title bout on July 11, at Emperors Palace, we found it expedient to sound out a large number of experts and boxing personalities, to attain their views on who will win South Africa's most keenly anticipated contest of 2009.

While highly illuminating, some of the opinions expressed here will undoubtedly cause a few surprises. Indicative of the close competitiveness of this bout, it's little wonder that 4 analysts 'sat on the fence' so to speak, while 12 selected Lovett and the other 14 chose Oosthuizen.
Enjoy!

*Ron Jackson: boxing analysts & writer.
"Oosthuizen will win simply because he's the harder hitter of the two. Other than that, there's not much in it"

*Chris Swanepoel: sports columnist.
"I'm selecting Lovett, because fights aren't always won by the boxer who has the greater degree of talent, but also by the better conditioned athlete. And in this sphere, Lovett has to be one of the fittest fighters in South Africa today."

*Bongani Magasela: boxing writer..
"It's a very hard fight to call, but since I've seen Lovett's proven durability against Ronnie Lategan and aren't as yet convinced how well Oosthuizen takes a punch, I'm going with the Storm to prevail in a really torrid encounter. Having said that it could well go the other way".

*Andries Steyn: former SA ring great and long-serving television analyst..
"I am going along with Oosthuizen, who I regard as the better boxer and arguably the harder hitter of the two".

*Stanley Sono: boxing official.
"What a terrific fight! But if I have to pick a winner it would be Tommy (Oosthuizen) who I believe is tactically the more assured fighter."

*Bennie Pailman: boxing trainer.
"Oosthuizen will beat Lovett, whether it goes three rounds or twelve rounds. He is the better boxer of the two and also the harder hitter".

*Willie Lock: veteran trainer.
"I can't see Lovett getting beat. He's a great young fighter and should have way too much power for Oosthuizen to handle".

*Paul Hetz: former boxing writer.
"Lovett's lack of caution will result in him being knocked out inside the first three rounds!"

*Manny Fernandes: trainer.
"I have said all along that I slightly favour Oosthuizen but since he's yet to prove himself at the weight, how can anyone really be sure. As you know, weight stops trains! But if Tommy is comfortable as a light heavyweight, I'd pick him to win, perhaps inside the distance".

*Brian Pretorius: former amateur boxer
"It may come as a surprise to many Lovett die-hards, but I feel that Oosthuizen has the speed and skill to beat him, and don't forget that he hits equally as hard, if not harder".

*Jeff Ellis: editor of African Ring.
"No fighter light heavyweight fighter in this country will beat Lovett. Yes, Oosthuizen is a predatory southpaw and he can hit like applejack, but when the chips are down, it will be Lovett who'll emerge triumphant!"

*Herby Vermeulen: former amateur boxing great.
"I like Oosthuizen. Insofar as endurance and staying power are concerned, I would select him to win what should be a terrific fight".

*Harold Volbrecht: trainer of Tommy Oosthuizen.
"Tommy is the finest prospect I've ever trained and he'll have too much of everything on the night! Taking nothing away from Lovett, who is a fine fighter, he has never faced anyone with Tommy's power and accuracy and I'm predicting a knockout victory for Oosthuizen within eight rounds".

*Brian Mitchell: former two-time world champion and the manager of Jared Lovett.
"This fight won't be for the squeamish but I really can't see Jared losing. He hits too hard, is physically stronger than Oosthuizen and is a more intense finisher. It's a straight call: a knockout victory for Lovett inside six rounds".

*Colin Nathan:
"Jared will have an easier fight than most of the experts believe. He is a tremendous finisher and his combination punching will take the fire out of Oosthuizen within five rounds".

*Annette van Schalkwyk: sports reporter.
"Although I'm a 'southerner' like Lovett, I think that Oosthuizen has an edge in this contest due to his trainer Harold Volbrecht, who is highly experienced and as shrewd as a fox!"

*Peter Moscardi: boxing writer.
"Two predictions: Firstly that this bout can never go twelve rounds and secondly that the fighter who lands the first concussive blow wins the fight!" .

*Lionel Hunter: former SA middleweight & light heavyweight contender.
"I'm stringing along with Lovett, who hails from my side of town and though I respect Oosthuizen as a fighter, he'll be hard-pressed to survive more than six rounds with an in-form Lovett."

*Peter Leopeng: radio analyst.
""Whoever lands the first great punch, wins the bout. It is as simple as that. One thing is sure, this bout won't go the distance, no way!"

*Andrew Smale: boxing official.
"This should be a titanic battle between two tremendous punchers and it's obviously a 50/50 call. Yet if I had to make a pick, I'd lean ever so slightly toward Oosthuizen, who seems to be the better boxer of the two".

*Driscoll Pettifer: boxing artist.
"Jared is my favourite for the fight and I'm sticking my neck out by saying he'll stop Tommy per courtesy of his most understated punch—the left hook!"

*Kevin McCallum: sportswriter.
"Amidst an electrifying atmosphere, I think Lovett will knock out Oosthuizen. Why? Because he is probably the harder hitter of the two and looks more durable and tenacious".

*Kwena Moabelo: radio presenter.
"Oh, this is a tough one to call. One thing we all know: one of them is going down. I'll go out on a limb and tip Lovett to win a grueling battle".

*Darryl Kukard: television producer.
"No doubt about it, Oosthuizen will win this fight by a knockout! His (Oosthuizen's) pin-point accuracy and composure, together with that fearsome left hook are an awesome combination that will prove to be too much for Lovett to handle".

*Bob Beetson Jr: sports historian.
"Anything Oosthuizen can do, Lovett can do better and it amazes me how many people have been picking the Boksburg fighter. Furthermore, Oosthuizen is not a real light heavyweight and he will be lucky to last more than four rounds. Mind you, while it lasts, this bout should be a corker".

*Art Pellulo: American boxing promoter.
""An unstoppable force against an immovable object. Need I really say more? Lovett versus Oosthuizen threatens to be one of the most explosive light heavyweight fights in recent times and I find it impossible to split the two. Moreover, they are both crippling punchers and this contest could swing back and forth before the endurance factor finally determines who'll be the ultimate winner."

*Ron Ellis: former SA heavyweight contender:
"Jared will win the IBO Youth world light heavyweight title and go on to become one of the biggest local drawcards in the past thirty years. A well balanced boxer-puncher, he will take control of the fight from the early rounds before posting a 6th round stoppage".

*Alfred Bukwana: former fighter and respected boxing official.
"I shouldn't be commenting on the likely outcome of this fight but since this is a democratic country with freedom of expression, I'm tipping in Oosthuizen's favour, albeit by a very short head. Both guys can really 'dig' and once they exchange punches toe-to-toe, who knows?"

*Phil Nyamane: boxing writer.
"Oosthuizen to win because he's a thinking fighter and not merely a slugger".

*Gavin Powell: fervent boxing acolyte.
"With only a handful of exciting talent in the light heavyweight ranks, this bout will hopefully go down to the scorecards and though I'm not unmindful of their respective knockout credentials, I'd like to see the loser of the contest benefit from the experience. Predicting who will win is another matter, and I find it impossible to choose between the two".

24 June 2009 — Terry Pettifer

The victor of the forthcoming Lovemore Ndou versus Phillip Ndou vacant IBO welterweight championship bout at Emperors Palace on July 11, has the opportunity to face Delvin Rodriguez of America, providing of course the Yank beats Isaac Hlatshwayo in their battle for the vacant IBF welterweight title.

That is the offer presented by American promoter Joe De Guardia to Golden Gloves Promotions CEO Rodney Berman.

"Joe has contacted me with the view to his man (Rodriguez) fighting the winner of Ndou versus Ndou and I must admit that it's an intriguing proposition" said Berman. That Berman has co-operated well with the astute De Guardia in the past is one of the reasons why the Johannesburg attorney is seriously considering the offer and it's a fact that both Lovemore (who jets into South Africa on Saturday at 4:10 pm) and Phillip will be more than keen to oblige Rodriguez, who previously drew with Hlatshwayo in South Africa.

"Lovemore in particular has expressed his willingness to take on Rodriguez any day of the week and I think it unlikely that either of our guys would lose to the American who despite being a capable boxer doesn't have the necessary firepower to dominate the international stage" said Berman.

Nevertheless the winner of the 'Ndou' clash could earn a sizable amount of money fighting Rodriguez, especially if they agree to feature in a unification match.

"Unification bouts aren't always possible but a crunch meeting between either Lovemore or Phillip against Rodriguez would realize substantial box-office appeal in South Africa, and naturally I'd love to see such a fight staged at Emperors Palace, which is now widely perceived as one of the Mecca's of international boxing" concluded Berman.

23 June 2009 — Terry Pettifer

With a growing number of experts selecting Tommy "Tommy Gun" Oosthuizen (8-0, 8 knockouts) to win his eagerly anticipated 'grudge' fight with Jared "The Storm" Lovett (8-0, 8 knockouts) at Emperors Palace on July 11, it was inevitable that the smouldering Storm would eventually react to the consensus choice amongst analysts. Moreover with the vacant IBO Youth world light heavyweight title up for grabs on the night, one can be sure that both of these 22-year-old fighters will be firing devastation out of one eye and brimstone out the other.

"If they're really experts they wouldn't pick Oosthuizen" snapped Lovett. "In fact this fight will go exactly according to the way we've planned it and he (Oosthuizen) will think that he's been surrounded by leather-encased bullets! No way that I'll lose. The myth behind the so-called Tommy Gun is about to be cruelly exposed and I'm relishing the thought of knocking him out".

Trainer Colin Nathan agrees with his handsome charge and feels that the lanky Oosthuizen is on a hiding to nothing come July 11. "It is going to be a grand occasion at Emperors on the night, what with three world titles on the line", enthused Nathan. "But the truth is that the fight between Jared and Oosthuizen won't go more than five rounds. I reiterate what I said previously, namely that this potential war will be done and dusted after less than 20 minutes!"

Lovett's manager Brian Mitchell, recently returned from being the first South African boxer ever to be inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame, while equally confident of victory, was noticeably more cautious in his appraisal of the fight. "Look, this is going to be one helluva fight while it lasts, but I'm compelled to say that Jared carries far too many guns for the string-bean Oosthuizen! Then too, my guy is physically stronger and has an instinctive killer instinct that knows no bounds. I'm saying Jared stops him within the first seven rounds".

Veteran trainer Willie Lock, columnist Chris Swanepoel and man-about-boxing Jeff ellis share the view that Lovett will win, as does former light heavyweight contender Lionel Hunter, himself a marvelous prospect in his day.

"Jared will have to be very careful in the first two rounds" said Ellis, who regards Lovett as one of the most exciting talents he has ever seen. "But after feeling his man out, he (Lovett) will establish a rhythm that will result in Oosthuizen being counted out before the midway point in the fight".

Meanwhile, Lovett had the last word. "After I've won the title I'm going to remind all the soothsayers who went against me of their words. Gee, that will give me almost as much pleasure as knocking this guy (Oosthuizen) out!"

23 June 2009 — Terry Pettifer

When former IBF junior welterweight champion Lovemore Ndou jets into Johannesburg on Saturday afternoon, he'll do so with two primary goals: to win the vacant IBO world welterweight title on July 11 at Emperors Palace and to painfully shut his opponent Phillip Ndou's mouth in the process!

Speaking ahead of his trip from Australia, where he's been campaigning for the last 14 years, Lovemore was highly animated about his return to the land of his birth. Moreover he was equally candid about his feelings towards his younger namesake.

"I'm very excited to be going back home and fighting for a world title makes it even more exciting" said the 37-year-old Lovemore. "Thanks to Rodney Berman of Golden Gloves Promotions. Rodney is a hard working astute businessman who always thrives to give South African fighters opportunities to fight for world titles and help them make money." Ndou explained in an interview with fightnews.com.

"I have nothing but respect for the man" added Lovemore, whose been in the ring with the most ferocious punchers in the world but has never been knocked out. "It's been 14 years since I last fought in South Africa". Asked whether his age was now a debilitating factor, Lovemore replied; "My age is my honour and strength. With age comes wisdom, experience and success."

After emphatically denying that there are any 'blood ties' between him and Phillip Ndou, the highly intelligent Lovemore made no secret of his dislike for his former amateur team-mate. "He's got a big mouth and I'm going to shut it good! In my book I refer to him (Phillip) as D & D which stands for delusional and dementia."

That the word "Ndou" means elephant in the Venda language hasn't escaped Lovemore and like he says, "When two elephants clash anything can happen". But it is Phillip, according to Lovemore, who will crash to the canvas on the TRIPLE THUNDER bill at Emperors Palace on the night of July 11. "I witnessed the beating he got from Floyd Mayweather and it was one of the worst hidings I've ever seen any fighter absorb. No wonder the guy id 'D & D'. Few people know it but I taught Phillip most of what he's learnt as a fighter, so when he says he's going to knock me out, who does he think he's talking to—pinochio?"

So earnest is Lovemore about pleasing his homespun fans at Emperors Palace that he has purchased 100 tickets for the fight, an unprecedented occurrence in recent times. "They'll be there to share in my moment of triumph" concluded Lovemore.

23 June 2009 — Terry Pettifer

It seldom gets bigger than this! Three world title bouts on one evening, two of which rank amongst the most eagerly awaited local showdowns in recent years. If there's a late stampede for tickets, don't be surprised, and methinks there'll be hordes of late-comers queuing for a glimpse of the action.

Thankfully for those who won't make it to Emperors Palace on the night of Saturday, July 11, the savage mechanics of this trip-hammer event will be televised LIVE per courtesy of SuperSport and if pre-advanced interest is anything to go by, folks will be talking boxing for weeks afterwards!

So why the intense interest in this star-studded event? Golden Gloves Promoter Rodney Berman probably summed it up best. "It's the age-old hero versus villain routine in one of the fights (Oosthuizen vs Lovett) and the grim realization that in at least one of the others (Ndou vs Ndou) the loser may be featuring in his last championship event. Moreover the third world title bout (Vetyeka vs Barcelona) on the bill features an intriguing match between two of the most lively and combative exponents on the international bantamweight scene. With that type of product mix, why wouldn't this tournament roster evoke thunderous applause?" asked Berman.

Since few local pundits can recall a more sought after fight than that between the two 22-year-old's; Jared "The Storm" Lovett (8-0, 8 knockouts) and Tommy "Tommy Gun" Oosthuizen (8-0, 8 knockouts), it's easy to understand why acolytes from various parts of South Africa will be journeying to Emperors Palace, to see which of these barnstorming punchers triumphs on the night.

Besides carving a lucrative payday for their belligerent endeavours, the swashbuckling Lovett and the more reticent Oosthuizen will be dueling for the vacant IBO Youth world light heavyweight title; the first time ever that such a bout is staged on these shores.

By promoter Berman's evaluation, it is virtually impossible to know which of these two splintering hitters ultimately "kisses polly" (gets knocked out!)

The southpaw Oosthuizen would appear to be gaining slightly in the popularity stakes, but so too did countless other gloved exponents prior to being dismantled. Taller, leaner and arguably more clinical than his equally fierce opponent, Oosthuizen will have veteran trainer Harold Volbrecht in his corner, while the smouldering Lovett has his illustrious manager Brian Mitchell, recently returned from induction into the International Boxing Hall of Fame, there to assist up-and-coming trainer Colin Nathan. Some experts feel that while the dark-haired Lovett has physical strength on his side, his tendency to freely exchange punches could prove disastrous against a beanpole hitter like Oosthuizen. Not so, though, African Ring editor Jeff Ellis, who predicts that the "Storm" will blow Oosthuizen away inside five rounds.

"Jared is just too hot for Tommy to handle" said Ellis. Other analysts like Ron Jackson and Andries Steyn, however, are firm for Oosthuizen, citing his "edge" in firepower as the winning ticket! "I'm only going with Oosthuizen because I think he's the harder puncher" said Jackson. "Other than that there's nothing in it".

The Lovemore Ndou vs Phillip Ndou battle for the vacant IBO welterweight crown has also garnered interesting reviews by hardened pen-pushers contemptuous of cannon-fodder opposition. "This fight is for real" said veteran expert Paul Hetz. "What is more, either fighter could conceivably win what promises to be a thrilling twelve-round encounter." Phillip Ndou is notably the more devastating hitter, having starched no less than 31 of his 32 professional victims. Initially a featherweight, Ndou went on to lift WBU championship honours as a junior lightweight and beat arch-rival Cassius Baloyi in one of the greatest fights ever staged on South African soil. Baloyi remains the only one of Ndou's victims to have gone the distance! After that the Timebomb ventured into the lightweight ranks, before capitulating inside seven rounds to Floyd Mayweather for the WBC lightweight title on November 1, 2003. A subsequent 12-round 'split' decision loss to Isaac Hlatsawayo (113-115, 115-113, 113-115) the following May led to Ndou's premature retirement from the sport by means of contentious medical advice.

Earlier this year Ndou (32) returned to the ring after an absence of almost 5 years, and in his first comeback fight, in France, he trounced Rachid Drilzane, scoring a 5th round TKO.

Can the "Timebomb" carry the omnipotence he had as a junior lightweight into the welterweight division? It's a question nobody knows the answer to, although Ndou's trainer Mick Castalano would have us believe that he is sharper than ever.

Clearly the fearsome punching Ndou will have his mettle sorely tested when he squares up to his 37-year-old Limpopo namesake, who for a number of years has fought out of Australia, where he's gleaned sizable international fame en route to winning the IBF junior welterweight crown in 2007. Lovemore, who sports one of the most dependable jaws in the business, has amassed an overall record of 46-11-1 with 31 knockouts and fought some of the most renowned competitors on the planet, amongst them Junior Witter, Kermit Citron, Miguel Angel Cotto, Sharmba Mitchell and Paul Malignaggi- to whom he lost the IBF junior welterweight championship in 2007.

An incredibly fit and durable craftsman, Lovemore Ndou could conceivably be the punters choice in this potential slugfest, if only due to his greater experience and proven ruggedness under fire.

Eric Barcelona (47-15-4) of the Philippines, is no stranger to South Africa, having previously fought here and given the then IBO bantamweight champion Silence Mabuza a grueling night's work.

A fiery boxer who relishes toe-to-toe warfare, Barcelona will however have a torrid assignment when he enters the ring to meet the Eastern Cape's Simpiwe Vetyeka (18-1) in a contest for the vacant IBO bantamweight title.

Promoter Rodney Berman believes that Vetyeka could become one of his consortium's finest achievers in years, but until he faces off against the highly seasoned Barcelona, there are a number of skeptics who'll remain unconvinced. A fitting inclusion on the TRIPLE THUNDER undercard, is junior flyweight sensation Hekkie "The Hexecutioner" Budler, who in a couple of months will fight for the vacant IBO junior flyweight belt.

22 June 2009 — Terry Pettifer

Simpiwe Vetyeka, from Duncan Village in the Eastern Cape, could follow in the footsteps of past South African bantamweight greats like Vic Toweel, Arnold Taylor, Willie Smith and Mbulelo Botile, when he enters the ring on July 11 at Emperors Palace to challenge Eric Barcelona (47-15-4) of the Philippines for the vacant IBO world bantamweight title. The other two premier attractions on the star-studded TRIPLE THUNDER tournament roster, will see Phillip Ndou challenge Lovemore Ndou for the vacant IBO welterweight title and Jared "The Storm" Lovett meet Tommy "Tommy Gun" Oosthuizen for the vacant IBO "Youth" light heavyweight crown.

"Vetyeka warrants a place on the glittering line-up" said Golden Gloves Promotions CEO Rodney Berman. "He has long proved his dominance on the home-front by winning and then defending the national bantamweight title no less than nine times. Vetyeka's only setback as a professional came about when he lost a fairly close decision to WBC bantamweight champion Hozumi Hasegawa in May 2007.

After turning professional in January 2002, Vetyeka won his first 16 contests before losing to Hasegawa, and his recent form suggests that he has benefited greatly from that championship loss. "I learned a great deal against Hasegawa" said the well-mannered Vetyeka. Just how much the clever boxing Vetyeka learnt will undoubtedly become evident when he squares up to the vastly more experienced Eric Barcelona. "Barcelona is a gritty infighter who loves pressurizing his opponents" said Berman. "We know from past experience that he (Barcelona) has a heart like a lion and it's almost impossible to hurt him".

Yet Berman believes that the soft-spoken Vetyeka will have Barcelona's number when they climb into the ring at Emperors Palace. "I liked the look of Vetyeka the first time I saw him and it's my considered opinion that he is one of the best balanced boxers at his weight in the world. Yes, he's that good!"

Remembering that South Africa has traditionally produced great bantamweight fighters: Vic & Willie Toweel, Arnold Taylor, Simon Skosana, Joe Gumede, Willie Smith, Mbulelo Botile, Welile Nkosinkulu, it stands to reason that the diminutive Vetyeka has been closely watched since winning the national title. Experts now agree that he rates exceptionally high in terms of all-around boxing ability and punching proficiency. "The kid can belt. And how!" said veteran fight watcher Bob Beetson.

That a victory over Barcelona will propel the South African into a unification match later this year, seems unlikely, though Berman did say that together with his American business associate Art Pellulo of Banner Promotions, the decks would be clear for Vetyeka to defend the title in the United States. "Providing Vetyeka wins the vacant IBO bantamweight crown on July 11, a lot of options will be available. With Vetyeka's unusual degree of skill, he could well feature on a high-profile ESPN bill before the end of 2009."

Meanwhile, word from the Philippines indicates that Eric Barcelona is in the finest physical shape of his career and his backers are confident that he'll be taking the jewel-encrusted IBO championship belt back home with him. "Eric is ready to roll and your fighter (Vetyeka) had better be prepared for the fight of his life" said a spokesman from the Barcelona camp.

*Tickets for the TRIPLE THUNDER event are selling increasingly well, and the promoters are advising fans to book at Computicket as soon as possible in order to avoid being disappointed!

15 June 2009 — Terry Pettifer

With less than a month to go before Jared "The Storm" Lovett and Tommy "Tommy Gun" Oosthuizen vent their fury in one of the most eagerly awaited grudge fights in the annals of the South African prize ring, pundits have been queuing up to express their prognosis of the fight, which takes place on the Gree-Air Conditioners/M-Net SuperSport "TRIPLE THUNDER" bill at Emperors Palace. With the vacant IBO Youth world light heavyweight title at stake, it's understandable that emotions are running high in the opposing camps, and the tension and atmosphere seems to have been transmitted to every dye-in-the-wool fight lover from Kuruman to Cape Town.

"My boertjie gaan Lovett klap!" said one vociferous old-timer from the Kalahari district, who just happens to be a fight lover of insurmountable passion.

Expert opinion, however, has naturally been far more eloquent.

"It should be one of the most intense and bitterly waged contests since Mike Holt battled Eddie Thomas back in the Fifties" said African Ring publisher and promoter Jeff Ellis. "Mind you, I can't see Lovett getting beaten and though I feel that Oosthuizen will give it his all, there's no way that Jared will get beaten at this stage of his career".

Boxing historian Ron Jackson, however, believes that Oosthuizen will win the fight. "I fancy Oosthuizen simply because I think he hits harder than Lovett,"said Jackson. Former three-time national champion Andries Steyn feels that the fight will bring out the best in both warriors, but leans towards Oosthuizen, who he feels is the better boxer. "Oosthuizen has more polish and if anything hits even harder than Lovett, who himself is a merciless puncher".

Driscoll Pettifer is one of the finest boxing artists in South Africa, acclaimed in many quarters for his charcoal drawing of "The Big 5 of SA Boxing'. He though feels that Lovett, 'with his superior skill and finishing ability' will cut Oosthuizen down to size inside five rounds. "Lovett is one of this country's greatest finishers since the days of Charlie Weir and I'm saying he knocks out Oosthuizen with his most understated punch- the left hook!"

Mind you, trainers Manny Fernandes and Bennie Pailman are firm for Oosthuizen, citing the string-bean puncher's accuracy and power as a match-winning formula. "My only reservation" said Fernandes, "is that Tommy is not a natural light heavyweight and as you know, weight stops trains!"

Boxing official Stanley Sono also tips Oosthuizen but remarked that Lovett, with his firepower, can never be underrated! "It should be a terrific fight!" enthused one of South Africa's longest serving boxing personalities.

Boxing expert and revered columnist Chris Swanepoel selected Lovett, who he regards as one of the best conditioned fighters in the country. "It's extremely difficult not to be impressed with his condition and dedication and I'm picking him to win" said Swanepoel.

On being informed that the consensus of expert opinion was gradually moving in Oosthuizen's favour, the 22-year-old Lovett jokingly commented, "If they pick him they aren't really experts!"

Meanwhile Lovett has compiled another of his fanciful poems, which he feels will sum up the fight in a nutshell:

Tommy will come out fast, but he ain't gonna last
He'll walk into a right that will fill him with fright
Still he'll try, though asking himself why,
Everything that he thought just amounted to nought
Poor Tommy now knows that he can't stop the blows
His body's gone all numb, from his head down to his bum,
And the belt he looked to gain, has been replaced with brutal pain
"Sorry" he'll tell his fans, but the belt's in Lovett's hands

15 June 2009 — Terry Pettifer

Trainer Harold Volbrecht is getting ready to- as he puts it- to "fire up" Lovemore Ndou ahead of the former IBF junior welterweight champion's world title bout with Phillip "The Timebomb" Ndou at Emperors Palace on July11.

One of three world championship bouts on the Emperors Palace TRIPLE THUNDER roster, the others being Jared "The Storm" Lovett V Tommy "Tommy Gun" Oosthuizen ( Vacant IBO Youth light heavyweight title) and Simpiwe Vetyeka V Eric Barcelona (Vacant IBO bantamweight title), the 'Battle of the Ndou's' –experts agree -could prove to be one of the most bitterly waged contests in the history of South Africa boxing.

"There's a helluva lot at stake in this fight" said Volbrecht. "Not only will the vacant IBO world welterweight belt be riding on the outcome of the contest, but also the respective bragging rights of two fighters with a razor-sharp rivalry that goes back to their days in the amateur ranks". That Lovemore Ndou has been living in Australia for a number of years does not worry Volbrecht in the least, who points to both his charge's experience and toughness as match-winning assets in what some feel might be a brutal battle of attrition.

"I've known Lovemore for years and suffice to say he is one of the most durable fighters in the world! He's never been stopped as a professional and remember that he's fought some of the finest fighters in the world, such as Junior Witter, Kermit Cintron, Sharmba Mitchell and Miguel Angel Cotto. Now all I have to do is fire him up in the gymnasium and make sure that his reflexes are honed to perfection" said Volbrecht.

With an overall record of 46-11-1, with 31 knockouts, it's clear, too, that Volbrecht is banking on the transplanted South African's wealth of 'ring savy' as a crucial factor in the outcome of the fight, especially since the man they'll be fighting, Phillip Ndou will only be having his second outing as a welterweight.

Indeed, Phillip's past kudos were earned as a junior lightweight, where he won the WBU world title before going on to fight and lose to the irrepressible Floyd Mayweather on November 1, 2003 in quest of the American's WBC lightweight crown.

Nonetheless, the 31-year-old Ndou owns one of the most impressive knockout records in recent times! Born on May 4, 1977 in Thohoyandou, Limpopo Province, he has fashioned a resume of 32-3 (31 knockouts). Ndou retired from the ring after a 'split' decision loss to Isaac Hlatshwayo in May 2004, but after much soul-searching and a stint as a television analyst, he made a comeback on February 14 this year when he journeyed to France and halted Rachid Drilzane in the 5th round of their bout.

One of the South Africa's most predatory finishers, Phillip has expressed no doubt whatsoever that he'll carry too many guns for his illustrious namesake and despite the usual pre-fight banter that is characteristic of the fight game, one senses that the "Timebomb" is looking to end the fight early! "I will surprise everyone" said Ndou. "Lovemore is made for me and now that I'm comfortable as a welterweight he'll get the shock of his life when I unload my best shots. The man is going down!"

Official betting on the fights starts this week and Golden Gloves Promoter Rodney Berman has strongly urged fans to buy their tickets at Computicket as soon as possible to avoid being disappointed.

"This tournament will see out long before the time" concluded Berman.

15 June 2009 — Terry Pettifer

When South Africa's former WBA and IBF junior lightweight champion Brian Mitchell receives induction into the International Boxing Hall of Fame on Sunday in Canastota, New York –along with Lennox Lewis and Orlando Canizales- he'll do so with the blessings and heart-felt wishes of his former promoter Rodney Berman. "Mitchell was the greatest of all my former champions and he fully deserves this honour" said Berman, who plugged away relentlessly over the past number of years to see the former "Road Warrior" receive induction.

"Brian was a perfect professional during his lengthy stretch as a world champion and he did this country proud" added Berman. Indeed, while most experts agree that there were more naturally talented fighters in South Africa over the past 30 years; Dingaan Thobela, Lehlohonolo Ledwaba, Gerrie Coetzee, none can claim to have equaled the fiery success of Mitchell, who campaigned exclusively abroad during his championship reign, due to the political situation in South Africa at the time.

Mitchell, who fashioned an overall record of 45-1-3 (with 21 knockouts) becomes only the second South African ever to be inducted into international boxing's most exclusive club and he was very emotional at the time he received the news. "I never thought the day would come when I'd be recognized amongst some of the greatest fighters of all time, but now that I've achieved the honour I feel humbled by the news" said Mitchell. "Immortals like Jack Dempsey, Joe Louis, Muhammad Ali, Roberto Duran and my particular idol Sugar Ray Leonard are past inductees and it's the ultimate honour to know that I've been considered worthy of a place alongside such glittering company".

On arriving in New York over a week ago, Mitchell made mention of the impact that Rodney Berman has made in his life. "The man is like a father to me and he remains one of the most innovative and far-sighted promoters in the history of the game. Much of what I've achieved can be attributed to the advice and decisions he made as both my promoter and friend" said Mitchell.

15 June 2009 — Terry Pettifer

On Saturday night at Graceland Casino, Secunda, Isaac "The Golden Boy" Chilembe (13-1, 8 knockouts) served notice that he may be the next superstar in South African boxing, when he clinically bust up and comprehensively outpointed the fierce-girt and unafraid David Kitooke (10-2-1, 9 knockouts) over 12 rounds to win the WBO Africa light heavyweight title. The three judges: Isaac Koal, Thabo Spampoel and Sazi Xamlashe had Chilembe, who scored a 9th round knockdown, unanimously in front by margins of 118-110, 116-111 and 120-110 respectively.

That the 21-year-old Chilembe's sublime performance earned him the plaudits of everyone in attendance, underlined what Golden Gloves Promoter Rodney Berman has been saying all along; namely that the Malawi-born fighter is as "sweet as sugar". Not that Chilembe's second Africa championship belt was easily attained. Indeed, despite his emphatic superiority in terms of arithmetic, Uganda's lion-hearted Kitooke showed undeniable signs that he is a force to be reckoned with, and from the outset, took the battle to his razor-sharp antagonist, who remains the only boxer ever to have beaten him.

"Chilembe's victory was emphatic" said WBO representative in Africa Andrew Smale, who added that he'd immediately be recommending a WBO world ranking for the smooth-boxing Golden Boy. "This kid is special—very special and I'll now be advising my WBO colleagues in Puerto Rico to draft him into the world championship ratings at 12th or 13th, depending on their assessment of the bout". Promoter Rodney Berman has meantime stated that the swollen-faced Kitooke, who had his best rounds in the 1st, 2nd, and 7th will definitely be featured on future Golden Gloves Promotional bills. "To stand up to that sort of savage treatment and still come back for more, says a lot and I'd like to think that David will remain with us for the next year or two. Who knows, he could in time become a star himself".

This scribe's uninvited scoring of the bout had Chilembe in front by 118-110! Having said that, Kitooke's brand of gallantry made it a competitive contest throughout and although he was continually speared with jabs from a dazzling boxer who at times favoured such unconventional gambits as throwing right hand leads –seldom missing the target –the courageous Ugandan relentlessly earned his wages, albeit in continuing trying circumstances.

Chilembe dominated most of the action after the fourth round, after having edged the stormy 3rd round, when both fighters hurled trip-hammer blows to body and head. Kitooke roared back to shade the 7th but was then subjected to a constant stream of jabs and high-voltage left hooks which had him tottering and dropped in the 9th via a three-punch combination of right-left-right. Chilembe's lead right hand was especially effective and it said much for his speed and accuracy that he landed the punch almost at will. "It takes a really classy boxer to do that" said former local lightweight great Andries Steyn.

Trainer Colin Nathan, who has done a superb job refining the multi-talented Chilembe's skills, couldn't hide his excitement after the decision was announced. "Most other fighters would have folded up under the punishment Isaac dished out, but Kitooke is a true warrior and we salute him" said Nathan. "In Isaac we have a gold nugget of extraordinary proportion".

Meanwhile the relatively unmarked Isaac Chilembe warmly greeted his growing legion of fans, and as his manageress Jody planted a congratulatory kiss on his cheek, spoke of his desire to win the WBO world title.

"I'm really glad to be working with Golden Gloves and Andrew Smale of the WBO. They're a very credible organization and I'm looking forward to fighting for the WBO world light heavyweight title in the next eighteen months".

The rest of the bill saw Joey Stiglingh up his unbeaten record to 4-0 in a featherweight 4-rounder against the game but outgunned Vusimuzi Manyoni, that moved promoter Berman to remark, "This young fighter has definite possibilities and we'll be watching his progress with great interest. What a terrific body puncher!" Other bouts on the tournament roster:

Jackson Chauke beat Sipho Nkadimeng on points 6 rounds- Flyweight
Charity Mukondelelei beat Ronald Parks on points 6 rounds-Junior flyweight.
Grant Fourie beat Daniel Botman on points 8 rounds (split decision)- Lightweight
Sabhelo Nokhele beat Ashley Dlamini on points 6 rounds (majority decision)- Featherweight.

*QUOTE OF THE NIGHT: "He's really an excellent fighter—.perhaps one of the very best we've ever seen in this country"- Golden Gloves director Des Rosen, reflecting on Isaac Chilembe.

14 June 2009 — Terry Pettifer

On Saturday night at Graceland Casino, Secunda, Isaac "The Golden Boy" Chilembe (13-1, 8 knockouts) served notice that he may be the next superstar in South African boxing, when he clinically bust up and comprehensively outpointed the fierce-girt and unafraid David Kitooke (10-2-1, 9 knockouts) over 12 rounds to win the WBO Africa light heavyweight title. The three judges: Isaac Koal, Thabo Spampoel and Sazi Xamlashe had Chilembe, who scored a 9th round knockdown, unanimously in front by margins of 118-110, 116-111 and 120-110 respectively.

That the 21-year-old Chilembe's sublime performance earned him the plaudits of everyone in attendance, underlined what Golden Gloves Promoter Rodney Berman has been saying all along; namely that the Malawi-born fighter is as "sweet as sugar". Not that Chilembe's second Africa championship belt was easily attained. Indeed, despite his emphatic superiority in terms of arithmetic, Uganda's lion-hearted Kitooke showed undeniable signs that he is a force to be reckoned with, and from the outset, took the battle to his razor-sharp antagonist, who remains the only boxer ever to have beaten him.

"Chilembe's victory was emphatic" said WBO representative in Africa Andrew Smale, who added that he'd immediately be recommending a WBO world ranking for the smooth-boxing Golden Boy. "This kid is special—very special and I'll now be advising my WBO colleagues in Puerto Rico to draft him into the world championship ratings at 12th or 13th, depending on their assessment of the bout".

Promoter Rodney Berman has meantime stated that the swollen-faced Kitooke, who had his best rounds in the 1st, 2nd, and 7th will definitely be featured on future Golden Gloves Promotional bills. "To stand up to that sort of savage treatment and still come back for more, says a lot and I'd like to think that David will remain with us for the next year or two. Who knows, he could in time become a star himself".

This scribe's uninvited scoring of the bout had Chilembe in front by 118-110! Having said that, Kitooke's brand of gallantry made it a competitive contest throughout and although he was continually speared with jabs from a dazzling boxer who at times favoured such unconventional gambits as throwing right hand leads –seldom missing the target –the courageous Ugandan relentlessly earned his wages, albeit in continuing trying circumstances.

Chilembe dominated most of the action after the fourth round, after having edged the stormy 3rd round, when both fighters hurled trip-hammer blows to body and head. Kitooke roared back to shade the 7th but was then subjected to a constant stream of jabs and high-voltage left hooks which had him tottering and dropped in the 9th via a three-punch combination of right-left-right. Chilembe's lead right hand was especially effective and it said much for his speed and accuracy that he landed the punch almost at will. "It takes a really classy boxer to do that" said former local lightweight great Andries Steyn.

Trainer Colin Nathan, who has done a superb job refining the multi-talented Chilembe's skills, couldn't hide his excitement after the decision was announced. "Most other fighters would have folded up under the punishment Isaac dished out, but Kitooke is a true warrior and we salute him" said Nathan. "In Isaac we have a gold nugget of extraordinary proportion".

Meanwhile the relatively unmarked Isaac Chilembe warmly greeted his growing legion of fans, and as his manageress Jody planted a congratulatory kiss on his cheek, spoke of his desire to win the WBO world title.

"I'm really glad to be working with Golden Gloves and Andrew Smale of the WBO. They're a very credible organization and I'm looking forward to fighting for the WBO world light heavyweight title in the next eighteen months".

The rest of the bill saw Joey Stiglingh up his unbeaten record to 4-0 in a featherweight 4-rounder against the game but outgunned Vusimuzi Manyoni, that moved promoter Berman to remark, "This young fighter has definite possibilities and we'll be watching his progress with great interest. What a terrific body puncher!"

Other bouts on the tournament roster:

Jackson Chauke beat Sipho Nkadimeng on points 6 rounds- Flyweight
Charity Mukondelelei beat Ronald Parks on points 6 rounds-Junior flyweight.
Grant Fourie beat Daniel Botman on points 8 rounds (split decision)- Lightweight
Sabhelo Nokhele beat Ashley Dlamini on points 6 rounds (majority decision)- Featherweight.

*QUOTE OF THE NIGHT: "He's really an excellent fighter—.perhaps one of the very best we've ever seen in this country"- Golden Gloves director Des Rosen, reflecting on Isaac Chilembe.

13 June 2009 — Terry Pettifer

Simpiwe Vetyeka, who originally hails from Duncan Village in the Eastern Cape, will –in the opinion of Golden Gloves Promoter Rodney Berman- be the next dominant international bantamweight from Africa. "Vetyeka could follow in the footsteps of other great local bantamweight world champions of the past, like Vic Toweel, Arnold Taylor and Mbulelo Botile, by claiming a treasured place in the annals of SA ring lore" said Berman.

As it is, Vetyeka will be co-featuring on the TRIPLE THUNDER world title event at Emperors Palace on July 11, when he fights Eric Barcelona (47-15-4) for the vacant IBO bantamweight title. The other two premier attractions on the star-studded bill, will see Phillip Ndou challenge Lovemore Ndou for the vacant IBO junior welterweight title and Jared "The Storm" Lovett meet Tommy "Tommy Gun" Oosthuizen for the vacant IBO "Youth" light heavyweight crown.

"Vetyeka warrants a place on the glittering line-up" said Berman. "Moreover, he has proved his dominance on the home-front by winning and then defending the national bantamweight title no less than nine times. Vetyeka's only setback as a professional came about when he lost a fairly close decision to WBC bantamweight champion Hozumi Hasegawa in May 2007.

After turning professional in January 2002, Vetyeka won his first 16 contests before losing to Hasegawa, and his recent form suggests that he has benefited greatly from that championship event. "I learned a great deal against Hasegawa" said the well-mannered Vetyeka. "As a matter of fact, that defeat could turn out to be a huge blessing in the months ahead".

At 5' 7" in height, Vetyeka is fairly tall for a bantamweight and he'll undoubtedly have to use all his sublime skill and numbing potency of clout to offset the marauding attack of Eric Barcelona.

"Barcelona is a chunky little tiger who loves fighting in the trenches and he'll certainly give Simpiwe a grand battle" said Jeff Ellis of African Ring magazine. But Berman, who won't even consider speculation that Vetyeka might lose, offered an illuminating comment of his own. "Vetyeka is now a seasoned professional and his razor-sharp reflexes and natural talent will provide the spring-board for an exciting international career that may very well culminate in a unification fight before the end of this year. That's how confident I am that he'll whip Barcelona".

13 June 2009 — Terry Pettifer

Twenty-one-year-old Isaac Chilembe (12-1-1) has been dubbed the "Golden Boy" of South African boxing and on Saturday night at Graceland Casino, this fleet-footed Malawi-born pugilist will be set to underline his worth as arguably the hottest young fighter under the Golden Gloves Promotional banner when he takes on Uganda's David Kitooke (10-1-1) for the vacant WBO Africa light heavyweight title..

"I believe that I'm the best boxer in the country –bar none" said Chilembe, who has never been known for his level of braggadocio. "Not that I'm being a braggart" said the handsome Chilembe, but when an athlete believes in himself anything is possible and I aim to become the 'ace' in the Golden Gloves pack of fighters". Pundits suggest, however, that Chilembe, who sports excellent ring skills and a chilling variety of punches, has a very difficult fight on his hands, despite stopping the very same Kitooke by means of an 8th round TKO in a previous match.

The menacing-looking Kitooke agrees. "It remains the only loss on my record" snarled Kitooke at Tuesday's pre-fight medical. "And I mean to avenge it. Remember, if you will that the loss was only due to an eye cut and I was clearly holding my own at the time that the referee stopped the fight".

Kitooke's trainer Harold Volbrecht supports that contention and has predicted an "upset" come Saturday night in Secunda.

"David is ready for the fight and don't be surprised if Chilembe can't go ten, let alone twelve rounds with my guy" said the former SA welterweight king. Yet it's certainly no brain-picker to suggest that Chilembe is the favourite ahead of this mouth-watering rematch and most respected pundits expect to see the murderous punching "Golden Boy" romp home a clear points winner.

Man-about-boxing Jeff Ellis feels that Kitooke's durability and heart will keep him in the fight until the very end but expects the Johannesburg-based Chilembe to win a clear points decision. "No, I don't think he'll knock Kitooke out, although you never know, but a points victory will amply appease the critics, especially in view of the Ugandan's awesome knockout record, which registers an awesome 90%".

Promoter Rodney Berman, together with Chileme's trainer Colin Nathan, nevertheless are hopeful of a vintage performance from the Golden Boy and indications are that a decisive victory for their charge will result in a WBO world light heavyweight title fight before the end of 2010. "Isaac is still very young and we certainly won't be bullied into taking a fight before he's ready" said Nathan, himself a youthful mentor with much to learn.

Undercard bouts on the Graceland Casino menu feature former Olympian Jackson Chauke VS Sipho Nkadimeng (flyweight), Grant Fourie VS Danile Bothma (lightweight), Charitty Mukondelelei VS Ronald Parks (flyweight), Joey Stiglingh VS Vusimuzi Manyoni and Ashley Dlamini VS Sabelo Nokhele (featherweight). The action will be beamed LIVE per courtesy of SuperSport!

08 June 2009 — Terry Pettifer

Isaac "The Golden Boy" Chilembe (12-1) knows that he cannot afford to lose Saturday night's crucial WBO Africa light heavyweight title bout with Kenya's Douglas Otieno (19-2) over 12-rounds at Graceland Casino. "This is a massive opportunity for me" said the amiable Chilembe, who was born in Malawi but fights out of Gauteng. "I simply cannot let this chance slip me by and come Saturday night I'll be pulling out all the stops to lift the vacant WBO Africa light heavyweight crown".

No doubt Douglas Otieno feels much the same and is by far the more experienced fighter. "Chilembe is a brilliant prospect and he's really determined to win the title" said trainer Colin Nathan. "In fact, this kid may well develop into one of the best light heavyweights Africa has ever produced and I'm hoping to see him firing on all cylinders on Saturday night. Don't, however, disregard Otieno because this tough-as-teak combatant is both resolute and fiercely proud and he owns a brutal assortment of punches.

"I know that Chilembe is a good fighter, but so am I" said Otieno. With the pre-fight medical scheduled for Monsoon Lagoon at Emperors Palace on Tuesday (June 9) at 12-noon, Golden Gloves Promotions CEO Rodney Berman admits that he's more than a little worried ahead of this fight. "We have a great deal of faith in Chilembe but I realize only too well what sort of tough assignment awaits him."

The undercard on this, Golden Gloves Promotions first ever event at Graceland Casino, features an exciting mixture of talent which includes some of South Africa's most rousing young professionals. Former Olympian Jackson Chauke will be looking to continue his winning streak when he squares up to Sipho Nkadimene over 6 rounds in the flyweight division. A brilliant boxer-puncher, Chauke possesses extraordinary reflexes and has already served notice that he's one of the leading candidates for 2009's "Prospect of the Year" Award.

Then there's the timely inclusion of Grant "The Fireball" Fourie –nephew to the late, great Pierre Fourie. Unbeaten as a professional, Fourie returns to action after a fairly protracted illness and will be hoping to best the rugged Daniel Bothma during their slated 8-round lightweight contest. This contest should prove to be a fiery contest from the opening bell!

Junior flyweight prospect Charity Mukondelelei put up an impressive performance when he recently fought Hekkie Budler, and has earned a place on this bill where he's matched against former amateur star Ronald Parks over 4 rounds.

A couple of Golden Gloves starlets; Joey Stiglingh (featherweight) and Ashley Dlamini (featherweight) make up the rest of the fight roster when they take on Hendrik Makholwane and Sabelo Nokhele respectively!

07 June 2009 — Terry Pettifer

Fans of light heavyweight starlet Jared "The Storm" Lovett are uptight over recent criticism of his trainer Colin Nathan. "Nathan is still a young trainer" said Lovett's manager Brian Mitchell, whose currently in the United States for his induction into the International Boxing Hall of Fame, "but his performances to date strongly suggest that he could go on to become one of our most successful mentors in a long time".

Amongst those who questioned Nathan's insight and prowess as a coach was former fight scribe Paul Hetz. But Mitchell was quick to defend his colleague, saying, "Hetz must remember that any trainer is confident of his boxer's ability to win a fight and by Colin remarking that Jared's forthcoming bout with Tommy Oosthuizen at Emperors Palace for the vacant IBO Youth light heavyweight title would be his 'easiest yet', simply underlines that fact. No, I'm not saying that Jared will romp home in the opening round, but he'll definitely win, of that I'm reasonably sure" concluded Mitchell.

Matchmaker Ruben Rasodi also feels that Nathan has conducted himself well since becoming a coach and gives him full marks for his conditioning of fighters. "Colin is a really dedicated trainer and I believe that the work he's doing with young boxers like Lovett, Ashley Dlamini, Hekkie Budler, Grant Fourie and Jackson Chauke has been crucial to their success."

Publisher of African Ring magazine Jeff Ellis believes that while the Lovett/Oosthuizen contest will be a veritable cracker that could 'ride on one punch' the criticism leveled against Nathan was somewhat 'over the top'. "Nathan is still fairly new in the game but he's done a remarkably good job with some of his fighters and his enthusiasm over Lovett is understandable. The kid is nothing short of sensational!" said Ellis.

A Johannesburg bookmaker who wishes to remain anonymous was, however, slightly critical of Nathan's recent comments, saying, "Marketing a fight is important and even if Lovett does win this bout in as easy a fashion as Nathan predicts, his remarks could very well detract from the magnitude of his boxer's performance."

Meanwhile, over in Van Dyk Park, Boksburg, the lean-boned Oosthuizen is clenching his fists in readiness for the fight, and it's perhaps noteworthy that his trainer Harold Volbrecht refused to name the round in which he feels his boxer will win. Instead the once mighty "Hammer" only grinned and said that all he hoped for was that the referee for the fight could count to 10! "Take it from me, Lovett is going KO" quipped the former national welterweight champion.

31 May 2009 — Terry Pettifer

Jared "The Storm" Lovett has reverted to poetry ahead of his crunch meeting with Tommy "Tommy Gun" Oosthuizen on July 11 at Emperors Palace Casino! Yes, much like the irrepressible Muhammad Ali of old, the 22-year-old 'bad boy' Lovett has composed a fanciful rhyme that he believes will play out according to plan!

What with the vacant IBO "Youth" World light heavyweight title on the line, Lovett feels that his opponent from Boksburg is nothing more than "pale-skinned prey" who won't go more than three rounds! Naturally Oosthuizen, who regards Lovett as little more than a 'smash-and-grab' fighter, says he won't be intimidated, but one senses a bristling anger raging in the 6' 6" bean-pole puncher from the East Rand.

"Jared can say what he likes but I'll close his mouth properly when we climb into the ring" scowled Oosthuizen. "For the sake of his well-being, he should keep his trap closed".

Yet for Lovett, there will be no letting up in the weeks leading up to this potentially titanic struggle between two of the hardest 'pound-for-pound' hitters that this country has ever produced! "I'll get into the sucker's head" exclaimed Lovett heatedly, "and come fight night he'll be a bundle of nerves, hell-bent on destruction. That's what I want! It will make my task all that much easier".

So what rhyme has Lovett compiled for his local arch-rival? With a steely-eyed glare clouding his features, the Storm rattled off his idea of poetry, with as much bite as he does those rapid-fire combinations.

Some guys say you're hot—but I believe it not,
Some even say you're sublime—but this is my time
There's a storm ready to engulf you
Leaving you black and blue

You're trainer Harold seems to feel you're great
But to me you simply don't rate
A robot with arms is a fitting disclosure
So tell him to watch me keep my composure

You're going in 'three' my pale-skinned prey
No matter how you run, or as much as you pray
The storm is rising, I feel it down deep
And when we meet on the eleventh, I'll put you to sleep

Is Lovett South Africa's garrulous version of the immortal Muhammad Ali? "From purely a publicity point of view, I'd have to say yes" says Golden Gloves Promoter Rodney Berman. "But while that type of ballyhoo works on certain fighters, it will be interesting to see how much effect it has on Oosthuizen. One thing is certain, when these two light heavyweight Titans trade punches it won't be for the squeamish!" And on that less than 'poetic' note, we await the next round of pre-fight bluster.

27 May 2009 — Terry Pettifer

To the best of my knowledge, few professional fighters have been dubbed after infamous Mafioso-type characters of the past, and it's interesting therefore that Kenya's Douglas Olieno (19-2) has adopted the monicker 'Capone' after the Chicago gangland boss of the Twenties, Al "Scarface" Capone!

Moreover it's perhaps an ominous portent that the fighter who'll enter the ring at Graceland Casino on June 13, with 'Capone' emblazoned on his boxing gown, feels he has the ammunition to lift the vacant WBO Africa light heavyweight title when he takes on Isaac "Golden Boy" Chilembe (12-1) over 12-rounds. Word has it, in fact, that Otieno will bring his heavy artillery into play in the early rounds of this potential 'knock-em-down, drag-em-out' slugfest. Not that the multi-talented Chilembe, who was born in Malawi, will be foolish enough to stand toe-to-toe with the hard punching Otieno, when he has such a slashing variety of punches at his disposal. "Why should we fight Otieno's fight?" asked trainer Colin Nathan. "The secret is to make the other guy fight our fight, and that entails boxing this guy from the outside before interspersing our battle tactics with some brutal shots to the body and head". Golden Gloves Promoter Rodney Berman agrees with Nathan and predicts an absorbing clash of styles on the night.

"Otieno may be something of an unknown factor to local fight fans but we've reviewed a number of his bouts, albeit through media reports and we're satisfied that he's a seriously tough cookie with an abundance of ring-craft. Having said that, I feel that Chilembe knows enough about Otieno to be able to strategize a winning performance" said Berman.

Certainly the 22-year-old Chilembe looks to be a slight favourite, when one considers his lavish degree of talent. "Isaac is one of the finest light heavyweight prospects I've ever seen" said man-about-boxing Jeff Ellis. "Moreover he can box fluently from the outside or apply his skills in a close range fight, depending on whatever happens to suit him".

Unwilling to comment on rumours that Chilembe and his stablemate Jared "The Storm" Lovett (8-0) had a 'war' in the gymnasium a few days ago, Nathan did say, "Isaac and Jared are two real professionals and they realize that there's a helluva lot they can teach each other".

That the Chilembe/Otieno championship battle will involve some crackerjack action appears likely and based on advanced reports from our sources in Kenya, Isaac can expect a very hard fight. "They don't call him Capone for nothing" enthused one of Kenya's leading reporters. "Indeed the man can really fight and he has a dangerous left hook, right hand combination that could burst your guy Chilembe's bubble". But Chilembe believes he is not about to have his bubble burst, especially in view of the lucrative rewards that beckon over the next twelve months.

"We'll be moving Chilembe along in a prudent fashion, ideally aiming to have him win both the WBO Africa and WBO world light heavyweight titles" added Berman. "Yes, he's that good!"

Anticipating a particularly rough evening against Otieno, the highly experienced Berman concluded by saying, "I think Graceland Casino will be rocking to the sound of some heavy thunder come June 13, and methinks Isaac Chilembe will be the chief architect of the leather-encased sermons that are about to unfold. Take it from me, whatever Otieno, or should I say Capone, brings to the fight, Chilembe will be ready for and you'll be privileged to see a new international star being born!"

25 May 2009 — Terry Pettifer

Jared "The Storm" Lovett (8-0, 8 knockouts) has an American pit-bull as a pet and reckons that the characteristic traits of that breed will be there for all to see when he takes on local arch-rival Tommy "Tommy Gun" Oosthuizen (9-0, 9 knockouts) at Emperors Palace on July 11, in a bout to determine the IBO Youth light heavyweight champion of the world! "My dog would never quit!" says Lovett, "And I don't either. Oosthuizen will find that out for himself when he climbs through the ropes to meet me on the night of my coronation as the new IBO Youth world champion".

Mind you, the southpaw Oosthuizen has definite views of his own regarding the forthcoming 'dogfight', and has benefited by romping with his German Shepherd dog, that according to many, is one of the most intelligent breed of canines in the world. "My dog has helped me in training and if Lovett thinks his 'growling' tactics will help him win this fight he's in for a very rude awakening!" said the pale-skinned Oosthuizen.

With ticket sales for the Emperors Palace "TRIPLE THUNDER" event selling like hot cakes, it's hardly surprising that the two young antagonists are champing-at-the-bit ahead of this explosive confrontation. "Jared is like a spring, waiting to uncoil" said trainer Colin Nathan, who methinks, is picking up a lot of advice from Lovett's father Aubrey, a former southpaw himself.

Harold Volbrecht, however, has no doubt who'll emerge victorious on the night and is candid in his appraisal of the two fighters. "Lovett is 22-year-old and packs a hefty punch in both hands, but he has never been hit by a guy like Tommy. At 21-years-of-age, Tommy is only beginning to show us what he's really got and I'm frankly sorry for all those fans in the south of Johannesburg who'll be trudging back home, heads bowed, after Lovett gets flattened".

Needless to say the Lovett family aren't even contemplating the possibility of defeat and it's been said around the Rosettenville area that father Aubrey is planning a huge victory celebration after the fight. "We may even invite Tommy, if he's in shape to attend" said one of Jared's innumerable friends.

Golden Gloves Promoter Rodney Berman has even felt the electricity leading up to this dream fight, and when opposing trainers Nathan and Volbrecht recently turned up at his Rosebank offices virtually at the same time, there was a distinct air of tension between the two. "They weren't too friendly" remarked Berman who'll be writing a sizable cheque for both fighters.

*Meanwhile the other two world title bouts on the "TRIPLE THUNDER" bill have also earned their fair share of exposure. Of late the stocks of SA bantamweight kingpin Simpiwe Vetyeka have noticeably soared and he'll be keen to add the vacant IBO bantamweight belt to his display cabinet, when he takes on the furious punching Eric Barcelona of the Philippines. Then too, the Phillip Ndou versus Lovemore Ndou clash for the vacant IBO junior welterweight belt should prove to be a real humdinger, and its fair comment to say that this bout could curtail the future aspirations of the man who gets beaten. "I know Lovemore from the amateur days and there's no way he'll beat me" said the vaunted "Timebomb". Bookmakers aren't too sure, however, and have installed the older and far more experienced Lovemore as a slight favourite in the betting.

To quote one of Johannesburg's leading bookies, "This tournament has a lot of potential pitfalls for a betting man, but if I was casting a bet it would probably be an all-to-come on Oosthuizen, Vetyeka and Lovemore Ndou!"

20 May 2009 — Terry Pettifer

South Africa's IBO junior lightweight champion Zolani "Untouchable" Marali (18-2) has his sights firmly set on the current WBC junior lightweight titleholder Humberto Soto (48-7-2) of Mexico!

CEO Rodney Berman early this morning. "Together with our American business associate Art Pellulo we have already approached Soto's promoter Bob Arum to tentatively pencil in a September or October date for the fight" said Berman. "Thus far Arum's response has not been that promising, no doubt because of Marali's growing reputation in the division and especially after his bout with Australia's Billy Dib last year". Nevertheless, Berman is confident that Arum and Soto "will come to the party" in the next few weeks, particularly in view of South Africa's expanding influence in the world of pugilism. "The Yanks realize that we have a plethora of boxing talent in this country and Marali is certainly one of the most dangerous hitting junior lightweights in the world at present" added Berman.

Naturally the scalp of Humberto Soto would be a most valuable trophy for the four-time world champion from South Africa, and both Berman and Pellulo have expressed a fervent desire to obtain the fight. "Soto is 29-years-old and has been fighting since 1997" said Berman. "Moreover his resume reads like a 'who's who' of boxing, with victories over the likes of Gamaliel Diaz (who Marali beat on points), Francisco Lorenzo, Antonio Davis, Rocky Juarez, Ismael Gonzalez, Oscar Leon, Carlos Urias, Mark Burse, Hector Guzman and in his latest fight, Benoit Gaudet, whom he stopped on the Manny Pacquiao/Ricky Hatton undercard."

Nicknamed La Zorrita, "The Crafty Little Fox", the hard punching Soto has chilled 31 of his 48 victims and boxes out of the orthodox stance. "We've seen Soto in action and fully realize that he's a rugged and gutsy fighter who relishes trading punches" said Marali's trainer Colin Nathan. "But in Marali this land has a consummate boxer-fighter whose southpaw style will give him fits! Yes, I've no doubt that Zolani will take him out, just give us the opportunity to prove as much".

Soto won the vacant WBC junior lightweight title in December last year with a unanimous 12-round decision over Francisco Lorenzo and has subsequently fashioned a brace of title defences against Antonio Davis (TKO 4) and Benoit Gaudet (TKO 9). At 5'7" in height (172 cm) Soto is considerably shorter than Marali, whose string-bean appearance belies the tremendous power he generates. "Marali is a terrific puncher and he'll need to be at his very best if we make this fight a reality" said Berman.

Meanwhile the ticket sales for the Emperors Palace "TRIPLE THUNDER" event on July 13 has taken off with a bang, and Berman is confident of a record attendance on the night. The bill features three world championship bouts: Simpiwe Vetyeka VS Eric Barcelona (Vacant IBO bantamweight title), Jared Lovett VS Tommy Oosthuizen (Vacant IBO Youth light heavyweight title) and Phillip Ndou VS Lovemore Ndou (Vacant IBO junior welterweight title). Booking available at COMPUTICKET! Reserved: R250, Unreserved: R150.

15 May 2009 — Terry Pettifer

The Phillip Ndou Versus Lovemore Ndou crunch meeting at Emperors Palace on July 11, has now officially been elevated to an IBO World junior welterweight title bout! In announcing this exciting development, Golden Gloves Promoter Rodney Berman said, "It's an incredible turn of events, especially since the contest was initially scheduled to be an IBO championship eliminator!" So what happened to inspire IBO President Ed Levine to afford this 'grudge' meeting world title status?

Berman explained. "As everyone undoubtedly knows this contest would have enabled the winner the right to fight Matthew Hatton for the vacant IBO junior welterweight crown later in the year, but since Hatton has now surprisingly decided to accept a bout against Zab Judah, the IBO has sanctioned Ndou versus Ndou as the official world championship event. It's really great from our perspective, and since both boxers (Lovemore and Phillip) are South Africans it guarantees this country another IBO world champion. Moreover the stakes are now perceptibly greater and we can anticipate a cracker of a fight, come July 11."

Berman added that the victor on July 11 would then be matched with the winner of the Hatton-Judah bout, hopefully at Emperors Palace. "We have a fantastic relationship with Emperors Palace and as the 'Mecca of SA boxing' they deserve our undivided respect."

That the pair of Ndou's, who incidentally boxed as amateur team mates, will deliver a pier-six fight seems certain and judging by their telephonic bantering at a recent press conference at Emperors Palace, there is no love lost between the two.

While Phillip "The Timebomb" Ndou will naturally be the 'people's choice' in this forthcoming war, pre-advanced betting has installed the 37-year-old Lovemore, whose been fighting out of Australia for a number of years, as the undeniable favourite. According to one prominent Johannesburg tipster, "Lovemore has fought the very best fighters in the world and has never been flattened! Then too he's a former IBF world junior welterweight champion and will arguably be stronger at the weight limit than Phillip, whose former kudos were earned as a junior lightweight."

At age 31, Phillip has, however, shown a comfortable response to moving up two divisions and in his first comeback fight after four years in retirement he displayed masterful poise and pace. "Phillip can still hit like hell and he has no fear or trembling about fighting Lovemore!" said man-about-boxing Jeff Ellis.

Methinks the July 11 bill at Emperors Palace will be sold out long in advance and judging by the ticket sales in the first four days of this week, it's an event that could eclipse the organizers wildest expectations.

Promoter Rodney Berman wholeheartedly agrees. "What with Ndou versus Ndou and the first ever IBO "Youth" world light heavyweight title between Jared Lovett and Tommy Oosthuizen, as well as a vacant IBO bantamweight contest featuring Simpiwe Vetyeka and Eric Barcelona it's hardly surprising we're billing this as Triple Thunder. Could there possibly be a more apt description for a tournament that promises to be barnburner from the opening bout?"

Meanwhile the rivalry between Tommy "Tommy Gun" Oosthuizen (9-0, 9 knockouts) and Jared "The Storm" Lovett (8-0, 8 knockouts) has been simmering just below boiling point and both fighters have issued warning of their belligerent intentions. "Jared will need to reinforce his chin to last more than three rounds" growled Oosthuizen from his Boksburg home. To which the good-looking Lovett replied, "I've waited for this guy for a L-O-N-G time and mean to hit him so hard that I'll even jar his relatives!"

Booking for the event at Computicket: R250 reserved—R150 unreserved.

13 May 2009 — Terry Pettifer

Golden Gloves Promotions will add additional punch to the 2010 World Cup football competition in South Africa by staging a massive boxing bonanza two weeks before the final! "We aim to inject additional flavour into the festivities by staging a mammoth tournament that will be beamed live throughout many parts of the world" said an excited Golden Gloves Promoter Rodney Berman.

While Berman wouldn't reveal all the details pertaining to the fistic extravaganza, he did say, "This will be an international tournament unlike any other we've ever done and we're planning to execute our plans in accordance with business associate Art Pellulo of Banner Promotions. I can, however, confirm that we've already had extensive negotiations with one of the major television networks in America and received a definitive response that will magnify South Africa's participation in the world of boxing."

Berman has of course staged a large number of glittering spectacles over the years, which included, "AMABUTHO EMPI", "ALL THE KINGS MEN", "ALI AT THE PALACE", and the biggest event to date, "THUNDER IN AFRICA".

The most successful promoter in the annals of the South African ring, Berman has promoted or co-promoted over 200 world title fights, en route to producing nearly 70 world champions, and the Golden Gloves banner is known and respected everywhere in the world. "South Africa's hosting of the FIFA World Cup competition in 2010 appropriately calls for a lavish event on our part, incorporating fighters from numerous parts of the globe and no matter which countries make it through to the semi-finals, we'll be structuring an extravaganza on a scale of which fight fans in this country have never imagined".

Art Pellulo of Banner Promotions will again be working closely with Berman in orchestrating the 'product mix' for the tournament and while football will naturally be the focal theme in South Africa during 2010, their collective efforts could justify the inclusion of several 'blue ribbon' performers from abroad. "This tournament will be showcasing our nation's sporting heritage on an unprecedented level and the entertainment we're lining up will be nothing short of 'A+', in every department".

That Berman has already earmarked a number of international stars to appear on the bill is a fact, but as he so aptly reckoned, "It would be injudicious to reveal too much at this point in time, especially since there's still a long way to go before world cup fever grips the country. Suffice to say that some of our participants will be household names in international boxing and we'll spare no cost in magnifying South Africa's potential as a talent-laden boxing land".

Berman concluded by saying, "We're really fortunate to have M-Net SuperSport backing our efforts and let no one tell you that there's a more formidable mortar for the sport of boxing. Then too, Emperors Palace have been a fantastic role player in the development and projection of our plethora of stars and come world cup 2010, we'll be taking professional boxing in this country to heights that we could only have dreamed of in the past."

12 May 2009 — Terry Pettifer

South Africa's latest boxing trade magazine African Ring is now on sale at R25 per copy and judging by the immediate response of fight fans, it looks like being a tremendous success.

Published by man-about-boxing Jeff Ellis, the magazine's Editor is former two-time world junior lightweight champion Brian Mitchell. Other contributors to this colourful monthly publication include Bongani Magasela, Ron Jackson, Peter Moscardi, Andre de Vries, Jeff Ellis and yours truly.

The cover of the #1 edition features a beautiful colour photograph of Jared Lovett and Tommy Oosthuizen, who'll be slinging leather-encased bullets when they clash for the vacant IBO world "Youth" light heavyweight crown at Emperors Palace on July 11. "African Ring is vibrant, exciting and brilliantly presented" said long time boxing lover and sponsor Gavin Powell, while former fight critic Paul Hetz called the magazine, "An exceptional blend of current and erstwhile reflections, gleaned by some of the most authoritative experts in the field".

According to Ellis, "We've assembled a highly experienced team of boxing experts and will be focusing our attention on both the local fight scene as well as the international market. No doubt we'll have plenty to write about in the forthcoming months especially since Phillip Ndou will be locking horns with his namesake Lovemore Ndou on July 11 and Jared Lovett and Tommy Oosthuizen, will be clashing in one of the most sought after local bouts in the last twenty years".

Next month's edition will be analyzing a possible super bout between Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao, two of the finest pound-for-pound fighters of the last 50 years.

12 May 2009 — Terry Pettifer

The bill for GRACELAND CASINO has been completed and fight fans are in for a feast of action on June 13 in Secunda. Yes, the date of the tournament has been moved from June 6 in order to accommodate LIVE SuperSport television transmission, and methinks armchair viewers will get more than their monies worth!

With Isaac "The Goldenboy" Chilembe (12-1) heading this 7-Bout SuperSport/Gree-Air Conditioners fight card when he takes on Kenya's Douglas Otieno (19-2) over 12-rounds for the vacant WBO AFRICA light heavyweight title, bookmakers will have their work cut out establishing the odds. Clearly Otieno is the far more experienced fighter but how will he cope with the 21-year-old Chilembe's lightning fast combinations and awesome left hook?

"Chilembe is hopefully en route to a world title fight within the next twelve months: said trainer Colin Nathan. "In fact, this kid has such an abundance of natural talent that he could arguably accelerate in terms of our pre-advanced expectations". Don't, however, disregard the Kenyan who'll be facing him, because Otieno is a hard-as-nails combatant who'll dig deep to win the much sought after WBO Africa belt. "I know that Chilembe is a good fighter, but so am I" said Otieno. "And one thing I know for sure, your fighter will really have his chin tested on June 13".

Golden Gloves Promotions CEO Rodney Berman has grand plans for the Malawi-born Chilembe, whom he considers "a rough diamond, waiting to be polished". The undercard on this, Golden Gloves Promotions first ever event at Graceland Casino, features a sparkling mix of talent, which includes some of our most gifted young professionals. Former Olympian Jackson Chauke will be looking to continue his winning streak when he squares up to Sipho Nkadimene over 6 rounds in the flyweight division. A brilliant boxer-puncher, Chauke possesses extraordinary reflexes and has already served notice that he's one of the leading candidates for 2009's "Prospect of the Year" Award.

Then there's the timely inclusion of Grant "The Fireball" Fourie –nephew to the late, great Pierre Fourie. Unbeaten as a professional, Fourie returns to action after a fairly protracted illness and will be hoping to short-circuit the rugged Daniel Bothma during their slated 8-round lightweight contest. This contest should prove to be a fiery confrontation from the opening bell!

Junior flyweight prospect Charity Mukondelelei put up a rousing performance when he recently swapped punches with Hekkie Budler, and has earned a place on this bill where he's matched against former amateur star Ronald Parks over 4 rounds.

A trio of Golden Gloves starlets; Joey Stiglingh (featherweight), Ashley Dlamini (featherweight) and Owethu "Octavius" Mbira (junior lightweight) make up the rest of the fight roster when they take on Hendrik Makholwane, Sabelo Nokhele and Elias Moyo respectively!

07 May 2009 — Terry Pettifer

South Africa's Simpiwe Vetyeka (20-1, 12 knockouts) is ranked #1 in the latest WBC world bantamweight ratings, ahead of his July 11 showdown with Eric Barcelona (47-15-4, 17 knockouts) at Emperors Palace for the vacant IBO bantamweight crown. The slick boxing Vetyeka hails from Duncan Village in the Eastern Cape, and has thus far displayed a measure of sublime talent that augurs well ahead of his bout with the belligerent Filipino. "Vetyeka reminds me a lot of other great boxers from the Eastern Cape" said Golden Gloves Promoter Rodney Berman. "When I think back on fighters like Welcome Ncita, Vuyani Bungu and Mbulelo Botile, this kid (Vetyeka) confirms what I've always said, namely that the Mdantsane and Duncan Village regions have produced some of the finest stock of pugilists ever to grace our rings".

That an IBO championship victory will further bolster Vetyeka's pedigree, is a fact and one that Berman means to exploit to the full. "Providing Vetyeka beats the far more experienced Barcelona, we'll be striving for a unification match with one of the other organization champions before the end of this year".

Meanwhile it pleases Berman to know that his other IBO world champion, Zolani Marali (junior lightweight) is currently ranked #9 by the WBC. "At long last he is being given the recognition his talents truly deserve and we're well on track to securing a meaningful opponent for Marali in the next two months". In his last outing at Emperors Palace, the southpaw Marali (20-2, 13 knockouts) posted a shut-out points win over the rough-and-tough Gamaliel Diaz of Mexico.

"It was an important victory for Marali" said his trainer Colin Nathan. "Diaz is an uncompromising and tricky opponent who's a match for almost every junior lightweight in the world and yet Zolani handled him comfortably, spearing him at will with that snake-like right jab".

The Vetyeka/Barcelona title bout is part of the headline attractions which will also feature an IBO world junior welterweight title Eliminator between Phillip Ndou and Lovemore Ndou and a vacant IBO 'youth' world light heavyweight Jared Lovett VS Tommy Oosthuizen.

BOOKING FOR THE TOURNAMENT OPENS ON MONDAY AT COMPUTICKET!

Prices: RSV: R250 UNRESERVED: R150

05 May 2009 — Terry Pettifer

The incredible demand for tickets to the Emperors Palace fistic extravaganza on July 11, which features three headline attractions, has left Golden Gloves Promoter Rodney Berman stunned! "I haven't had this sort of pre-advanced response to a tournament since Hasim Rahman fought Lennox Lewis in 2001" said Berman this morning. "Indubitably the three main bouts; Phillip Ndou vs Lovemore Ndou (IBO world junior welterweight title eliminator), Jared Lovett vs Tommy Oosthuizen (Vacant IBO world "Youth" light heavyweight title) and Simpiwe Vetyeka vs Eric Barcelon (Vacant IBO world bantamweight title) represent one of the most appetizing fight menus staged in this land in years and with two months to go before the actual event it's mind-boggling that patrons are already requesting tickets.

In appreciation of the fact, booking for the tournament will probably open this week! "This is undoubtedly the first time since the Thunder in Africa (Lewis/Rahman) event that there's been such an enormous interest in any particular boxing tournament and the portents augur well for what should be a bonanza night of unforgettable fights" concluded Berman.

Berman has never forgotten the role played by his glittering array of erstwhile stars, and candidly admits that insofar as this tournament is concerned, there are four fighters who literally ooze charisma! "In the past we had Charlie Weir and Johnny du Plooy, who were two of the biggest show-stoppers in the history of the SA prize ring and I genuinely feel that the likes of Oosthuizen, Lovett and Phillip Ndou rank amongst the most electrifying talents that Golden Gloves has ever promoted."

What of the likes of Lovemore Ndou, Eric Barcelona and the vibrantly exciting Simpiwe Vetyeka? "Vetyeka needs this fight against the battle-hardened Barcelona to underline his amazing potential and Lovemore Ndou is an internationally renowned star who previously held the IBF junior welterweight title and exchanged punches with a number of the world's very best. What more can I say?" added Berman.

Art Pellulo of Banner Promotions in the United States contacted Berman last night and between them the two business associates have outlined plans for the next six months, that will headline a number of our fighters in South Africa and the USA.

Moreover, Pellulo has his latest fistic sensation Demetrius Andrade –who is co-promoted by Golden Gloves Promotions penciled in for the July 11 bill in South Africa and believes that the former Olympian will prove to be an astounding hit in this country. "Demetrius is a superstar in the making" said the cigar chomping Pellulo.

But Pellulo is equaling excited about seeing the two Ndou's lock horns and of course viewing the outcome of the grudge fight between Lovett and Oosthuizen. "If you don't fill the arena to capacity I'll eat my cigar" laughed Pellulo.

Though the official ticket prices have yet to be confirmed, it's expected that a ringside seat will be in the region of R250 while the other tickets could go on sale for R150 each.

05 May 2009 — Terry Pettifer

Former world heavyweight champion Sonny Liston was one of the most enigmatic and mysterious fighters in history. An illiterate with a lengthy criminal record, Liston knocked out Floyd Patterson in 2: 06 sec of the first round to lift the world heavyweight crown at Comiskey Park, Chicago on September 25, 1962. Before the bout, Liston had been quoted as saying, "Boxing is like a cowboy movie, you have good guys and bad guys, and the public pay to see the good guy win. So I'm the bad guy, but I turn things around, I don't get beat!"

In South Africa at present, we have an upcoming bout that rekindles memories of that famous 'good' guy versus 'bad' guy contest between the bucolic Patterson, and the surly and menacing Liston. I speak of the July 11 crunch meeting at Emperors Palace Casino, between Jared "The Storm" Lovett (8-0, 8 knockouts) and Tommy "Tommy Gun" Oosthuizen (9-0, 9 knockouts). Certainly there are a number of similarities between the Lovett-Oosthuizen clash and the fight which saw the Liston – who entered the ring as a 9-5 favourite –stun the world with his brutal annihilation of the much loved Patterson.

The 21-year-old Oosthuizen and the 22-year-old Lovett will also be fighting for a world championship, namely the IBO "Youth" world light heavyweight title, and like Liston and Patterson, they could clearly qualify for a 'good' guy versus 'bad' guy billing.

Indeed Lovett, while oozing charisma, has already built up a rather sinister reputation in the street, where his fearsome fists have purportedly registered a number of assault raps. Definitely portrayed as the 'bad' guy ahead of his confrontation with the phlegmatic Oosthuizen, the southern suburbs boxer will –according to Golden Gloves Promoter Rodney Berman –have to 'toe the line' if this dream meeting is to become a reality.

"I don't want to hear one more word about Jared Lovett being involved in an out-of-the-ring punch up!" warned Berman. "The kid has to know that he is a professional pugilist and that demands living a clean life, free of controversial incidents, such as the one which recently took place at a restaurant in Glenvista".

Mind you, numerous observers have said that Lovett has become a constant target for trouble seekers, keen on establishing a reputation of their own.

And Oosthuizen? An electrician by trade, this homely Afrikaans speaking predator is by all accounts a docile young man outside the roped arena, looking only to impose a violent reputation when there are padded gloves attached to his fists.

So why is there such an unusual stampede for tickets ahead of this potentially explosive encounter? Simply the age-old hero-villain routine: Oosthuizen (pale-faced, clean-cut, every mother's son) versus Lovett (untamed, rough, spit-in-your-eye). One to cheer, one to jeer, which is always a sure-fire seller in the cauliflower-ear profession.

Methinks it will attract a full-house crowd to Emperors Palace on the night notwithstanding the other major attraction that sees Phillip "The Timebomb" Ndou take on his namesake from Australia, Lovemore Ndou in an IBO junior welterweight title eliminator, with the winner to fight Matthew Hatton. Then too there's an IBO bantamweight title fight between Simpiwe Vetyeka and Eric Barcelono of the Philippines

But it's Lovett versus Oosthuizen that everyone's talking about at present and you wont find a watering hole anywhere in the southern suburbs or the East Rand that isn't bristling in anticipation.

Lovett, unlike the monosyllable Liston, is a highly intelligent young fighter and he realizes that victory over Oosthuizen could set him on the road to fame and fortune. Yes, he'll live with the 'bad' guy tag as long as it assists in his marketing. "This is no dream match for me" Lovett growled at a recent press briefing, "he's just another opponent I'll leave dead".

Far less voluble, Oosthuizen doesn't really care either way how or what his opponent does in his spare time, offering only to 'tame' his rival once they climb through the ropes. "Jared has got a lot to say, but come fight night, I'll close his mouth properly". While Lovett has promised his multitude of fans and detractors a quick knockout, Oosthuizen aims to teach his opponent manners before applying the coup de grace! No doubt the ghosts of Liston and Patterson will lend an understanding nod!