28 October 2009 — Terry Pettifer

Providing Isaac "The Golden Boy" Chilembe (13-1) can defeat Doudou Ngumbu (20-0) at Emperors Palace on Saturday night, to claim the WBC international light heavyweight title, his international stocks will soar over the next six months. So says Golden Gloves Promoter Rodney Berman. "Isaac is only 22-years-old and a victory on Saturday night would put him in the pound seats, believe me!" said Berman. "Indeed, once a fighter wins the WBC International title he automatically becomes world ranked by that organization and it would not be far fetched to say that Isaac has his own destiny in his hands when he climbs through the ropes to meet the Congolese-born Ngumbu. Certainly a triumph, no matter how attained, would propel Isaac into the Top 10 light heavyweights in the world and given his age, he could well become a millionaire before very long".

While Berman is already mapping out strategic plans for the soft-talking Chilembe, he is mindful that everything hinges on the outcome of Saturday night's title bout. "If Isaac wins, and I think he can, the rainbow and all its horizons are there for the taking and naturally we'd be very selective in terms of his opponents during the first six months of 2010. A beautiful boxer with razor-sharp reflexes, Chilembe already owns two Africa titles and he clearly has no illusions of what lies ahead. "Look I know that Ngumbu is not undefeated for nothing, but having said that he hasn't fashioned any mind-boggling victories as yet and don't forget that we've benefited from the visuals obtained of some of his fights. Yes, I'm very confident and it would take a cannon, nothing less, to prevent me from winning the WBC International title come Saturday night".

Fortunately the powerfully-muscled Ngumbu, who fights out of France, won't have that type of armoury at his disposal, but what he does have is speed, guile and snappy, pinpoint combinations.

"Ngumbu is a very good boxer, make no mistake" said Berman, "But you can't get to the top by fighting tomato cans, and if Isaac is to fulfill his splendid promise he has to beat genuine title contenders. Certainly this contest will give us an excellent understanding of how far he's come and where he's heading".

Ngumbu though is a tough nut to crack and oddsmakers have installed him as a slight favourite. "It's hard to argue with the numbers" said Golden Gloves director Des Rosen. "Yet champions are there to beat and Isaac has the potential to go all the way to the very top. It's simply a question of patience and timing".

Trainer Colin Nathan, however, has seldom been as confident of victory, and he believes that his Golden Boy will rock the fistic world down to its roots on Saturday night. "Everyone acknowledges the fact that Isaac can box, but man, he can hit like applejack and don't get a surprise if he knocks this guy out".

28 October 2009 — Terry Pettifer

SA super middleweight champion Tshepang Mohale (6-2, 5 knockouts) is supremely confident of bursting what one of his backers refers to as the "myth of Tommy Oosthuizen's invincibility". Indeed, whereas almost everyone believed that Oosthuizen is the tallest super middleweight in the world, the rangy Mohale looked the "Tommy Gun" squarely in the eyes when the two boxers posed for photographs at Tuesday afternoon's pre-fight medical at Emperors Palace. The two fighters will meet on Saturday night at Emperors Palace for the vacant WBA Pan African super middleweight title. Unbeaten in 9 professional fights, of which he's fashioned 7 knockouts, Oosthuizen has already lifted both the IBO Youth light heavyweight and super middleweight world titles this year and is aiming at adding a third championship belt to his expanding collection.

"That won't happen" said a smiling Mohale, "because I'm going to shock the country by being the first boxer ever to beat him as a professional". Trained by former world champion Lehlohonolo "Hands of Stone" Ledwaba, the savage punching Mohale poses a definite threat to Oosthuizen's unblemished record, and will obviously be mindful of the rewards that lay ahead if he should emerge victorious.

Mind you, Oosthuizen's mentor Harold "The Hammer" Volbrecht feels that his fighter has far too much class and power to be upset by the reigning SA champion.

"I want to laugh at times, because everyone Tommy fights is always cocksure of defeating him but thus far it hasn't happened and come Saturday night Mohale will join the ranks of victims who tried but failed. Will Tommy knock him out? I can't say but if the opportunity presents itself, this guy is going to sleep".

Meanwhile tension has reached boiling point ahead of Saturday night's feature attraction, that sees four-time world champion Zolani "Untouchable" Marali (20-3) square up to Mlungisi "The Shark" Dlamini (20-0) for the vacant IBO world lightweight title. The fighters almost came to blows at the pre-fight medical after going nose-to-nose, and Marali's trainer Colin Nathan was moved to jump between them before matters got completely out of hand. "The guy has got no class" said Nathan, referring to Dlamini's boastful prediction that he'll pound Marali into submission and then; "carry on hitting him until the referee pulls me off".

By comparison, the two warriors who will be contesting what experts believe could be the best fight of the night; Isaac "The Golden Boy" Chilembe (13-1) and Doudou Ngumbu (20-0), were highly subdued when they posed for pictures and even managed to smile broadly at each other and shake hands in a most gentlemanly fashion. Not that those in attendance were fooled into believing that their 12-round WBC International light heavyweight title contest will be anything other than a fiery war between two of the best conditioned athletes in Africa.

Indeed, the reigning champion Doudou Ngumbu, who was born in the Congo but does a great deal of his fighting in France, may not be able to speak English but he radiated confidence after his manager Jerome Ray had translated Chilembe's prediction of victory. "Speed will be the big difference between them on Saturday night" said Ray. "We know all there is to know about him (Chilembe) and have no doubt that Doudou will have the speed and experience to successfully retain his title. It should be a great contest but take my word the title will still belong to Ngumbu after Saturday night's fight".

26 October 2009 — Terry Pettifer

South Africa's two-time world champion Lovemore "The Black Panther" Ndou has been living in Australia for the last fourteen years, but the chunky 38-year-old from Limpopo Province is still fiercely proud of his roots and on November 13, he'll be looking to repulse the championship challenge of England's "Magic" Matthew Hatton (37-4-1, 14 knockouts) with a dual purpose, when they meet over a slated 12 rounds in defence of Ndou's IBO world welterweight title. "I may be an Australian citizen but I'll always be very much a native South African and when I defend my title against Hatton I'll be aiming to make both Australia and South Africa proud of my efforts" said Ndou, who is in South Africa this week to attend the "DAMOCLES" boxing extravaganza at Emperors Palace next Saturday night, October 31.

Ndou previously held the IBF junior welterweight crown before adding the vacant IBO world welterweight title to his name with a clear-cut victory over his namesake Phillip Ndou at Emperors Palace in July this year.

"I'm really glad to again be working with Rodney Berman of Golden Gloves Promotions" said Ndou, whose training under the auspices of former undefeated SA welterweight boss Harold Volbrecht.. "The man is one of the most astute and innovative boxing entrepreneurs in the world, and undoubtedly Africa's greatest ever promoter."

In conjunction with Berman's US business associate Art Pellulo, the Ndou vs Hatton bout takes place at Fenor Manor Sports Complex, which is located on City Road in Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire. One of boxing's most seasoned campaigners, Ndou has never been stopped as a professional, even though he's fought some of the game's most formidable fighters and he certainly won't have any compassion for the 28-year-old challenger he's about to face.

"I'll have no love in my heart once I climb through the ropes against Hatton" said Ndou, "Fact is, I'm figuring to give him the best whipping of his life, thereby enticing his more illustrious brother Ricky to make a comeback in order to avenge his younger sibling". Golden Gloves Promoter Rodney Berman would like nothing more and this despite his ongoing business dealings with Ricky Hatton Promotions.

Mind you, Ndou has a tough fight on his hands on November 13, and one should not forget that Matthew Hatton has won his last four bouts in a row, beating some pretty useful competition in the process. "Lovemore defeated Ted Bami, Ben Tackie and most recently Ernesto Zepeda" said trainer Volbrecht, "and they're all very good fighters, so yes, we'll have our work cut out for us on November 13".

It's certainly no secret that Berman would like to see a Lovemore Ndou vs Ricky Hatton title fight take place in South Africa next year, to coincide with the Football World Cup and naturally he'll be hoping that the Black Panther 'does the business' against Ricky's younger brother Matthew.

"I believe that Lovemore will beat Matthew next month" said Berman. "Thereafter it will be a question of convincing Ricky to launch a comeback in order to salvage some family pride. Candidly I think we can do just that, especially if Ndou gives Matthew a real pasting".

26 October 2009 — Terry Pettifer

"Best friend, worst enemy", or so the saying goes, and on Saturday night at Emperors Palace Casino, two men who were once the firmest of friends, will be looking to smear each other all over the canvas in their quest for the vacant IBO world lightweight title.

Indeed, both four-time world champion Zolani "Untouchable" Marali (20-3) and Mlungisi "The Shark" Dlamini (20-0) will express but minor regret if they succeed in rendering their opponent senseless. "This is a tough game" said the loquacious Dlamini, "and though we were friends in the past, there's no place for brotherly love in the roped arena, and I'll be aiming to bust him up from the opening bell".

Marali, who at 32 is the older fighter by six years, feels much the same and predicts a knockout victory inside of eight rounds. "I lost my IBO junior lightweight title because I was weight drained, but that certainly won't be a factor in this fight and come Saturday night, he (Dlamini) will feel my wrath for all the nonsense he's been spewing. I'll knock him out, no problem" said Marali.

That the Marali/Dlamini championship contest heads a star-studded "DAMOCLES" tournament blockbuster, underlines the allure of this particular engagement and in the next few days the level of antagonism that has gradually been fueled by both camps should reach boining point.

Opposing trainers; Warren Hulley (Dlamini) and Colin Nathan (Marali) have been far less voluble in the countdown to the fight but Nathan hasn't bothered to mask his disappointment at the manner in which Dlamini has been bragging. "I never figured the guy for such a big mouth, but I can assure you that he'll pay for some of his disparaging remarks. Marali is in superb condition for this contest and he's champing-at-the-bit to get to grips with his former gymnasium pal".

Experts cannot seem to agree on the probable outcome of the bout and even Golden Gloves Promoter Rodney Berman and his consortium's fight publicist Terry Pettifer disagree on the likely winner, as do a host of other boxing personalities such as Paul Hetz, Manny Fernandes, Jeff Ellis, Andre Thysse, Brian Mitchell, Ruben Rasodi, Harold Volbrecht and "Baby" Jake Matlala.

Clearly the betting fraternity is equalling unsure as to who should enter the ring as favourite, and much could depend on the two boxers' psychological approach when they come eye-to-eye at Tuesday's midday pre-fight medical/press conference at Emperors Palace.

"I'm prepared to wager that Marali will be far too experienced and slick for Dlamini" said Ellis, while neutral mentor Manny Fernandez feels that Dlamini will "grind Marali down inside ten rounds".

Outspoken crtic Paul Hetz, however, questions Marali's 'heart' saying, "He quit against Thomas Mashaba some years back and he did the same in his last bout- which he was winning- against Korea's Ji-Hoon kim, so I have to believe that he'll fold against the tiger-like Dlamini".

Not so, says two-time Hall of Famer Brian Mitchell. "Zolani will be better suited fighting as a lightweight and his spearing jab and dazzling combinations will be too much for Dlamini to handle. im tipping Marali to win a unanimous 12-round points decision, which will give him his fifth world title".

25 October 2009 — Terry Pettifer

Rodney Berman is fond of calling his Class of 2009, "my young lions" and if the CEO of Golden Gloves Promotions is to be taken serious, then some of his designated 'feline' squad of boxers could be in a desperate fight for survival on the "DAMOCLES" blockbuster event on October 31 at Emperors Palace! "The likes of Isaac "The Golden Boy" Chilembe, Tommy "Tommy Gun" Oosthuizen and Hekkie "The Hex-ecutioner" Budler will obviously be in a perilous position in their respective bouts against Doudou Ngumbu, Thepang Mohale and Motswake Moselesele" said Berman.

"Indeed notwithstanding the vacant IBO world lightweight title bout between our four-time world champion Zolani Marali (20-3) and former WBF world lightweight champion Mlungisi "The Shark" Dlamini (20-0), which tops the bill on the night of the tournament, most of the biggest challenges involve our emerging crop of starlets; Budler, Chilembe and Oosthuizen, who could all be engaged in wars of survival".

The Dlamini/Marali championship bout looks like being a real cracker and opinions are divided as to which fighter will ultimately emerge victorious. "It is one of those bouts that could go either way" said Berman. "Suffice to say, both warriors will be digging deep to win the fight and while the explosive-hitting Dlamini is only 26-years-old, he'll be facing a wily, experienced fighter in Marali, whose lightning-fast combinations and ripping body blows belie the fact that he's six years older than the Shark". Berman added; "Whoever wins the vacant IBO lightweight title will undoubtedly deserve to be crowned king, but methinks it will be an action-packed, drama-charged fight that will feature thrills aplenty".

Berman's collection of "young lions" will also be judiciously scrutinized and it's no exaggeration to say that the Chilembe bout, in particular, could provide fans with enough "red stuff" to clad the Liverpool football team.

"Isaac has got a real war on his hands" said Berman, "especially since he'll be fighting a French-born opponent who has never been beaten in 20 bouts".

Odds-makers who've been assessing the WBC International light heavyweight title bout, between the champion Ngumbu and his SA-based challenger Chilembe, agree with Berman and have understandably, quoted the Frenchman as a 5-4 favourite!

"We all love Isaac" said gambling mogul Ken Sinclair, "but hell, he is in for a heck of a fight, and it would be naïve to expect him to knockout Ngumbu. Moreover, the way I see it Chilembe may be the one who gets carried out of the arena early!".

IBO All Africa junior flyweight champion Hekkie "The Hex-ecutioner" Budler will certainly be fancied to successfully defend his title against Motswake Moselesele, but Berman still has reservations about the pint-sized Herculean.

"Every bout is a risk" said Berman, "and what with Budler's winning resume of bouts, each opponent he squares up to will be looking to derail his ambitions, thus gate-crashing the international rankings. Bearing that in mind, Hekkie would be wise to keep his chin tucked in and fight a disciplined battle at close quarters, where he's been most effective in the past. Too often in the past I've seen him (Budler) charge forward gallantly, like Custer at the Little Big Horn, unmindful of pain and disdainful of losing. Then again, who really expects to hear Elvis sing like Caruso, right?"

And the 22-year-old Oosthuizen? Arguably the most exciting one-punch hitter in South African boxing at present, the Tommy Gun has already won two IBO Youth world titles this year, but experts agree that he won't have an easy time containing the bullish style of current SA super middleweight champion Tshepang Mohale, when they clash over a slated 12 rounds for the vacant WBA Pan African super middleweight title.

"Thus far Tommy has been a cut above his opposition but he'll be under immense pressure from the opening bell when he meets the destructive punching Mohale" said Golden Gloves matchmaker Ruben Rasodi.

Flo "The Demolition Man" Simba makes his professional debut on October 31 in a four-round 90 kg catchweight bout against Bernard Vance, and one senses that Berman is expecting a fiery performance from his latest recruit, despite telling Simba that there is no pressure on him to score a knockout.

Yeah right!

22 October 2009 — Terry Pettifer

Professional debutant Flo "The Demolition Man" Simba will turn heavyweight boxing on it's head in the next few years. At least that's the considered opinion of former SA super middleweight champion Andre Thysse.

Simba enters the professional boxing ring for the first time on October 31 when he takes on Bernard Vance in a 90 kg catchweight bout on the star-studded "DAMOCLES" tournament bill at Emperors Palace.

Currently staging an impressive comeback after a four-year break from boxing, Thsse, who regularly spars with the 20-year-old Simba, rates the former amateur slayer, one of the best prospects he's ever seen.

"This guy hits like a sledgehammer and while I don't know much about his opponent Vance, I cannot see him lasting more than a couple of rounds with Simba: it's that simple" said the 40-year-old Thysse, who now campaigns as a light heavyweight.

Based in the Southern Suburbs of Johannesburg, Simba is a university student and figures as one of the most exciting local heavyweights in years. Trained by former SA welterweight great Harold "The Hammer" Volbrecht, he also has the additional bonus of having Hall of Famer Brian Mitchell as his manager.

Incidentally, Mitchell is presently in the United States where he's to be inducted into the World Boxing Hall of Fame next week. A few months ago he received what is regarded as professional boxing's most lauded honour when he was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame.

While Brian will be back in time to do television commentary on the DAMOCLES bill, his parting shot to Simba was reasonably straight-forward. "it's your first professional fight" Mitchell told his boxer. "So go out there and enjoy yourself".

19 October 2009 — Terry Pettifer

"A pint-sized, python-breeding, whirlwind with gloves", is the way one expert recently described IBO Africa junior flyweight champion Hekkie Budler. Yet the "Hex-ecutioner" as Budler dubs himself, could conceivably be three or four fights away from fighting for the IBO world junior flyweight title.

"Everything depends on Hekkie himself" said Golden Gloves Promoter Rodney Berman. "But we will not rush him before the time! Hekkie is only 21-years-old and although he has enormous talent and remains unbeaten in 12 fights, a lot rests on his continued progress over the next eight months".

Budler, who turned professional in July 2007, with a 1st round demolition of Michael Sediane, has gradually progressed to the point where his name is now being bandied about as a potential world beater.

"Not yet, but perhaps in the next six or seven months" said trainer Colin Nathan. Methinks Nathan is being extremely judicious not to get too carried away with his spike-haired protégé's rate of development, and while victories over the likes of Petros Mahlangu, Sibusiso Twani, Ronald Parks (twice), Charity Mukondeleli and Khanyakude Mukansi made the "Hex-ecutioner" a firm crowd puller at Emperors Palace in the past, his next bout, on October 31, against Motswake Moselesele will be carefully scrutinized by experts country wide.

Budler's conquest of Mukondeleli in April 2009, earned him the vacant IBO Africa junior flyweight crown, and after defeating Doctor Ntsele in the first defence of his title in September, Promoter Rodney Berman found it fortuitous to match him once again. "Budler thrives on action" said Berman. "Some fighter are like that and while he doesn't always knock his opponents out, Hekkie loves a fever pitched-battle, where he can toss punches at twenty-to-the-dozen".

Mind you, Budler is certainly what we in the trade describe as a "tasty" hitter and four of his victories have come via the stoppage route.

Personally your scribe would like to see him throw more left hooks on the inside and yes…he is still inclined to throw a half-hearted right hand, instead of hammering the punch home with venom aforethought.

That said, a lot now hinges on how he performs at Emperors Palace in a couple of weeks time.

Are you listening Hekkie?

19 October 2009 — Terry Pettifer

Mlungisi "The Shark" Dlamini (20-0) will find four-time world champion Zolani "The Untouchable" Marali (20-3) too tough to chew when the two warriors head the "Damocles" tournament blockbuster at Emperors Palace on October 31. So says the 32-year-old Marali's trainer Colin Nathan, ahead of this potentially riveting vacant IBO world lightweight championship fight.

"Dlamini has been running off at the mouth since the fight was signed, but we have a very big surprise in store for him" said Nathan, who will also be in the corner on the same night, when Isaac "The Golden Boy" Chilembe (13-1) challenges France's Doudou Ngumbu (20-0) for the WBC International light heavyweight title.

One of South Africa's up-and-coming mentors, Nathan believes that his charge will have too much experience and all-around talent for the 26-year-old Dlamini who has already won WBF world lightweight honours. "Look, Dlamini is as yet undefeated and I suspect that may have gone to his head somewhat, that's why he's been boasting that he'll knock out Zolani. Actually the guy (Dlamini) will find Marali untouchable on the night and he'll be made to pay for his loquacious dribble in a very painful manner".

That Marali lost his IBO world junior lightweight title to Ji-Hoon Kim at Emperors Palace recently, has been attributed more to Marali's drastic weight loss leading up to the fight than the flailing fists and talent of Kim himself.

"Marali was physically spent" said boxing expert Jeff Ellis, "but if you refer to the scorecards you'll surely see that he (Marali) was a mile ahead on points". Incidentally, Ellis is one of the pundits who agrees with Nathan regarding the upcoming fight and has predicted that the Untouchable will bounce back to win his fifth world title.

"I really can't see Dlamini beating him at this point in time" added Ellis. "Marali has got the jab, the experience and the power with which to negate the Shark's belligerence and rapid-flurry attack."

Neutral trainer Manny Fernandes, however, feels that Dlamini will carry too much power and speed for Marali to handle. "I believe that Dlamini is a work in progress, while Marali has begun the inevitably slide associated with boxers on the wrong side of thirty. I could be wrong of course, but I'm betting Dlamini will stop him inside eight rounds".

Recent inductee to the International Boxing Hall of Fame, Brian Mitchell doesn't agree with Fernandez and envisages Marali firing sufficient leather armoury to overwhelm his adversary in the later rounds. "Marali is still an outstanding fighter" said Mitchell, "and I'll be hugely surprised if he crumples beneath Dlamini's fists"

19 October 2009 — Terry Pettifer

It may be that trainer Harold Volbrecht will be forced to bridle the jungle cat instincts of Tommy "Tommy Gun" Oosthuizen (9-0, 7 knockouts) ahead of his vacant WBA Pan African super middleweight championship outing against SA super middleweight champion Tshepang Mohale (6-2, 5 knockouts) at Emperors Palace on October 31.

At least that's the view of several observers close to Volbrecht. "Tommy has murder in his heart every time he climbs into the ring at the gymnasium" said an unnamed member in the training camp. "He cannot seem to pull his punches and sparring partners aren't that keen to be brutalized by one of the most savage hitters ever seen in this country".

Former SA super middleweight champion Andre Thysse, whose presently on the comeback trail, laughingly agreed that Oosthuizen "is not the easiest of guys to spar against because of his instinctive tenacity". But Thysse, who regularly swaps punches with Oosthuizen and heavyweight newcomer Flo "The Demolition Man" Simba, admits that the Oosthuizen can take it as well as dish it out. "He never complains if you hit him hard, but man…that's when you need wings on your heels to avoid having him rip your head off" said Thysse.

Another constant ringside watcher pointed to a recent session between the 20-year-old Simba and Oosthuizen as a case in point. "Flo slammed home a rocket-like right hand that would have leveled most heavyweights, but all Tommy did was grunt, snarl and go straight into the heavier man with venom aforethought. I tell you this kid (Oosthuizen) doesn't know how to slow down in the gym and that could become a real problem insofar as his obtaining regular sparring partners"

Volbrecht, however, has been around for a long time and he more than most recognizes the signs relative to fighter during the weeks ahead of a major bout. "Tommy is a guy who can really unload and naturally he likes to work exceptionally hard in the gym, but I'm not unduly worried about him opening up on the odd occasion. That's part and parcel of this game. But if every session becomes a war, then I would have to harness his belligerence accordingly".

Meanwhile the countdown to the "DAMOCLES" blockbuster bill on October 31 has attracted considerable box-office interest, and Golden Gloves Promoter Rodney Berman has urged patrons to get to Computicket as soon as possible. "That way there won't be any disappointment of not being able to secure a ticket for the tournament" said Berman.

The "DAMOCLES" bill includes some of the most riveting bouts of 2009, what with Isaac "The Golden Boy" Chilembe (13-1) challenging Doudou Ngumbu for the WBC International light heavyweight title, Hekkie "The Hex-ecutioner" Budler defending his IBO Africa junior flyweight crown against Motswake Moselesele and of course the banner event, between Mlungisi "The Shark" Dlamini (20-0) and Zolani "The Untouchable" Marali (20-3), who'll be fighting for the vacant IBO world lightweight title. There's also there's the additional bonus of having the explosive punching Flo "The Demolition Man" Simba make his debut at the 90 kg catchweight limit against Bernard Vance.

19 October 2009 — Terry Pettifer

Golden Gloves Promoter Rodney Berman has come up with an exciting international light heavyweight tournament concept that will incorporate the business interests of his own boxing consortium, Ricky Hatton Promotions in Britain and Banner Promotions in the United States. The concept will stretch over three continents and involve boxers from Europe, South Africa and America!

"At present we have a number of exciting projections in mind" said Berman. "I've already had talks with Art Pellulo (Banner Promotions) and Gareth Williams (Ricky Hatton Promotions) in lieu of orchestrating an explosive series of bouts in the specified weight category that will encompass 16 fighters in total and be fashioned along the same lines as the current "Showtime" television boxing format, ultimately culminating in one boxer winning the competition". Berman added, "Naturally the winner be lucratively rewarded and the boxers we've identified will compete in separate tournaments in South Africa, Britain and the United States".

While Berman never identified specific venues for the proposed elimination series, it appears relatively certain that the fights will take place at several famous arenas, collectively identified by the Triumvirate concerned.

"It's certainly an extremely exciting concept" said Banner Promotions boss Art Pellulo. "Moreover there are a number of truly outstanding light heavyweights competing on the international circuit at present and we believe by stretching the competitive field we'll only add to the overall allure of the concept".

16 October 2009 — Terry Pettifer

Isaac "The Golden Boy" Chilembe (13-1, 8 knockouts) will have his credentials sorely tested when he steps into the ring to challenge Doudou Ngumbu (20-0, 9 knockouts) for the WBC International light heavyweight title on October 31 at Emperors Palace.

Part of the "DAMOCLES" bill that also features; an IBO Africa junior flyweight title bout between Hekkie Budler and Motswake Moselesele, a vacant WBA Pan African super middleweight championship fight between two-time IBO Youth world champion Tommy "Tommy Gun" Oosthuizen (10-0, 8 knockouts) and national titleholder Tshepang Mohale (7-2, 5 knockouts) and a vacant IBO world lightweight title match between former four-time world champion Zolani "Untouchable" Marali (20-3, 13 knockouts) and Mlungisi Dlamini (20-0, 9 knockouts), it's arguable whether there will be a harder-fought confrontation on the night than that between Chilembe and Ngumbu.

Indeed, not only is the 26-year-old Ngumbu undefeated as a professional, but this French born boxer/fighter is clearly the betting favourite ahead of what pundits expect to be a fiercely waged fight. "Isaac will need to dig deeper than he's ever done" said Golden Gloves Promoter Rodney Berman.

Moreover, Chilembe's trainer Colin Nathan is quick to agree. "Look, Ngumbu is a battle-hardened warrior and we realize that he'll come out smoking from the opening bell. Nevertheless, Isaac has been in there with some pretty useful opposition in the past and he can handle himself against boxers with all types of styles. I've no doubt that Isaac will prevail, but admit that it could prove to be an absolutely grueling affair".

Not everyone in boxing shares Nathan's sentiments, however, and there are definitely those observers who feel that Ngumbu's more seasoned background will have a telling effect on the outcome of the fight.

"The longer the bout lasts, the more difficultly Chilembe will experience" said former ringside critic Paul Hetz. Another candid view came from Solly Mapanya, who was a regular contributor to Boxing Express during the 1980's.

"I have yet to see the 23-year-old Chilembe 'throw his load' and then have to fight back from the brink of disaster. Can he do that? Frankly no one knows and this contest could prove to be an eye opener in more ways than one".

"Chilembe will really have his work cut out for him in this fight" admitted Golden Gloves matchmaker Ruben Rasodi. "but having said that, the challenge could quite conceivably bring out the best in him, we'll just have to wait and see".

12 October 2009 — Terry Pettifer

Could the 20-year-old Flo Simba be the answer to Golden Gloves Promoter Rodney Berman's ultimate dream of producing a black South African world heavyweight champion?

The powerfully muscled Simba, who is studying University at present, will be making his professional debut on the DAMOCLES blockbuster event at Emperors Palace on October 31, in a 4-round 90 kg catchweight bout against Bernard Vance. "Expectations of Simba fashioning an explosive performance in his first outing are so overwhelming that I've instructed him to simply go out there on the night and enjoy himself" said Berman.

Brian Mitchell, who manages the South Hills fighter, agreed with Berman. "Look the fanfare and pre-advanced hype regarding the guy has received has been incredible, but he needs to firstly find his feet in the professional ranks and the most important thing on the night will be for him to score a win over Vance and not necessarily by way of knockout" said Mitchell.

Mind you, according to Simba's trainer Harold Volbrecht, the new "Demolition Man" of SA boxing will undoubtedly be seeking a knockout win, given his splintering proficiency as a hitter.

"This kid can hit like applejack and while he can box as well as he punches, I think he'll be looking for an impressive opening scalp to get his career underway" said Volbrecht.

As for Berman, there has always been the hope in his mind of producing a black boxer from South Africa who can fulfill his long-held dream of reaching the pinnacle in heavyweight attainment, and he strongly feels that Simba could become that man. "It's very early to foster too many notions concerning Simba, yet the fact remains that everyone who has seen him destroy the opposition as an amateurs has been highly impressed with his all-around ability and punching power. The kid stands 6'4" and is already a strapping 90 kgs, which means that in a couple of years he could fill out into an awesome 97 kg fighter, and naturally that would make him a bonafide heavyweight competitor. For now though we'll eagerly look forward to see him in action on October 31 at Emperors Palace" concluded Berman.

THE EMPERORS PALACE BILL:

FLO SIMBA VS BERNARD VANCE- 90 kg catchweight-4 rounds.

HEKKIE BUDLER VS MOTSWAKE MOSELESELE-12 rounds IBO Africa junior flyweight title

ISAAC CHILEMBE VS DOUDOU NGUMBU-12 rounds WBC International light heavyweight title

ZOLANI MARALI VS MLUNGISI DLAMINI -12 rounds Vacant IBO World lightweight title

TOMMY OOSTHUIZEN VS TSHEPANG MOHALE-12 rounds Vacant WBA Pan African super middleweight title

*Budler is the current IBO Africa junior flyweight champion and Ngumbu will be defending his WBC International light heavyweight title against Chilembe

12 October 2009 — Terry Pettifer

There was "war talk" on the part of Mlungisi "The Shark" Dlamini (20-0, 9 knockouts) ahead of the official confirmation of his crunch meeting with former four-time world champion Zolani "The Untouchable" Marali (20-3, 13 knockouts) at Emperors Palace on October 31. The two warriors will be fighting for the vacant IBO world lightweight title!

Indeed, the 50-strong crowd of media-personnel and local fight writers, who assembled at the Promise Grill restaurant in Meyersdal, Alberton on Saturday morning, were somewhat stunned by Dlamini's vitriolic speech which asserted that Marali; an erstwhile friend and now his opponent on the night of the DAMOCLES extravaganza at Emperors Palace, would routinely crumple beneath Dlamini's -as yet- omnipotent fists!

"I'll knock him out for sure" said Dlamini, hissing with belligerence. "He may have sparred with me in the past but on October 31 he's going down, it's that simple. Nothing he can do will surprise me and there's no earthly chance Marali can beat me, irrespective of what he or his trainer, Colin Nathan, happen to say. I'll outbox him, outfight him and knock him out when I'm good and ready" added Dlamini, who's now 26-years-old. "My work in the gymnasium has left me in the best condition of my life and I'm ready to add the IBO lightweight crown to my list of titles".

To which the 32-year-old Marali responded; "He has said a lot here today, but now that I've sorted out the problem with (my) weight, I'll hand this guy a real boxing lesson before knocking him out. Frankly I don't know why he has to act like a brass because he certainly cannot intimidate me"

Marali's trainer Colin Nathan was similarly unimpressed and told reporters "I'm really surprised that he had to resort to that sort of claptrap, but cometh the hour, cometh the man, and Marali will knock the tripe out of him on October 31". Publisher of African Ring magazine Jeff Ellis attended the press briefing along with other notable press personalities such as award-winning journalist Annette van Schalkwyk and veteran sportswriter Paul Hetz.

SuperSport and e-News representatives were also in close attendance and it wasn't surprising that the conference room soon attracted a considerable audience, all of whom were straining to hear what was being said between Dlamini and Marali.

Ellis as usual was one of the first to make a telling observation; "Dlamini is a promoter's dream, what with his charisma, fiery flamboyance and natural skill, but from my neutral perch I believe that Marali has been terribly offended by his opponent's inflammatory utterances here this morning, and while the Shark obviously finds it difficult to bridle his anger, Marali will now be looking to shut Dlamini's mouth by fashioning a virtuoso performance in keeping with some of his previous outings. Judging by what happened here today, I would say we have a great fight on our hands".

Thabo Daniels, who is as experienced in the sport of boxing as anyone I know, quipped, "This looks like being a titanic war while it lasts, and the manner in which the cock-sure Dlamini is talking, can only serve to inspire Marali after his last disappointing show".

Golden Gloves Promotions, in conjunction with Emperors Palace Casino, hosted the breakfast/press conference in order to dispel any lingering doubts that Marali (who only recently lost his IBO junior lightweight title to Ji-Hoon Kim of Korea) would be eligible to fight the undefeated Dlamini, so soon after the Untouchable had lost his IBO junior lightweight crown to Ji-Hoon Kim at Emperors Palace.

"There was never any doubt that Marali was way ahead on points in his fight with Kim, and he clearly suffered minimal discomfort on the 'punishment index' before opting to quit in the 10th round of that contest" said GGP CEO Rodney Berman. "Having said that, we're grateful that BSA (Boxing South Africa) saw no reason to veto the Marali/Dlamini championship fight and this despite the urging of several people in the journalistic profession" concluded Berman.

"Marali plaintively ran out of steam in the 10th round of his last fight" said the outspoken Paul Hetz. "And although he was knocked down just prior to the stoppage, he would have romped home a lop-sided winner if he wasn't so weak from making the weight"

Another bout on the DAMOCLES bill that is sure to supply fireworks, is the vacant WBA Pan African super middleweight title contest between two-time IBO Youth world champion Tommy "Tommy Gun" Oosthuizen (9-0, 7 knockouts) and SA super middleweight king Tshepang Mohale (7-2, 6 knockouts). According to acclaimed local boxing official Stan Christodoulou, "It has the makings of a pier-six war and because both fighters can end a fight with one punch, we can eagerly anticipate a knock-em-down, drag-em-out encounter".

Oosthuizen himself elaborated on his hitherto conquests as an IBO Youth light heavyweight and super middleweight champion by saying, "This has been an unbelievable year for me and naturally I'll be hunting my third title when I square up to Mohale, who rates highly as a puncher".

Mind you, title contests are the order of the night on October 31, and an additional inclusion to the DAMOCLES roster sees IBO Africa junior flyweight champion Hekkie "The Hex-ecutioner" Budler join the bill in a slated 12-round shootout against the skilled Motswake Moselesele. "Hekkie has got a grueling fight ahead of him" said Golden Gloves matchmaker Ruben Rasodi. "Moreover this guy Moselesele is a 'tasty' hitter and there's little chance of the bout ending early".

But arguably the most intriguing championship fight on the entire bill, is that between the undefeated WBC International light heavyweight champion Doudou Ngumbu (20-0, 9 knockouts) and Isaac "The Golden Boy" Chilembe (13-1, 8 knockouts).

Though Chilembe will be regarded as a rank underdog on October 31, the Golden Boy is, however, bubbling with confidence, and on Saturday seemed completely relaxed as he fielded questions about his French-born opponent, who currently fights out of the Congo. "I know that this will be the toughest bout of my career, but I've analyzed Ngumbe's record and believe that I have the tools and pace to beat him. Don't get me wrong, this fellow is an extremely fine champion but at age 23 I have a lot of years ahead of me as a fighter, and I mean to gatecrash the WBC world ratings by becoming the first boxer ever to whip Ngumbu" said Chilembe.

Last but by no means least the handsome 20-year-old Flo "The Demolition Man" Simba will make his long-awaited professional debut when he climbs through the ropes to take on Bernard Vance in a 90 kg catchweight bout.

"The whole of Gauteng wants to see Simba in action" said Jeff Ellis. "Especially in view of the tremendous amount of pre-advanced publicity he's already received".

08 October 2009 — Terry Pettifer

With the Emperors Palace blockbuster tournament 'DAMOCLES' set for October 31, its rather surprising that fight buffs throughout Gauteng have already begun debating the wisdom of matching two of Golden Gloves Promotions most riveting talents; Tommy "Tommy Gun" Oosthuizen (9-0, 7 knockouts) and Isaac "The Golden Boy" Chilembe (13-1, 8 knockouts) against opponents who could realistically derail their burgeoning careers.

Publisher of African Ring magazine Jeff Ellis said as much ahead of what threatens to be a thunderous night of boxing, which also features sensational professional debutant Flo "The Demolition Man" Simba.

"Rodney (Berman) is taking a massive chance by putting two of his brightest young stars; Oosthuizen and Chilembe into fights of such magnitude, especially in view of the opposition they'll be facing" said Ellis. "Mind you, he has taken calculated risks in the past and they paid off handsomely and no doubt the CEO of Golden Gloves has carefully weighed up the pros and cons of his decision".

Ellis' consternation is, however, shared by former ringside oracle Paul Hetz who said, "Oosthuizen is a marvelous talent and his forthcoming WBA Pan African championship shootout with the SA super middleweight champion Tshepang Mohale should answer a lot of prevalent questions, the most important being whether or not Oosthuizen can take a good crack on the whiskers. I say that because Mohale, can really punch, as seen by his professional ledger that reads 7-2, 6 knockouts".

Hetz, who used to write for Boxing Express in the mid-Eighties, added; "As for Chilembe, let me say that he has to be considered a rank underdog going into this WBC International light heavyweight title bout against the reigning champion Doudou Ngumbu of France. Judging by their respective records, Chilembe is clearly disadvantaged, given the fact that he will be facing a champion with an unblemished resume of 20-0, with 9 knockouts. I could be wrong but I think that at least one of Berman's two stars will be shell-shocked on the night".

That Oosthuizen's highly experienced trainer Harold "The Hammer" Volbrecht has predicted a 'golden' future for his 22-year-old charge, hasn't escaped the attention of boxing pundits country wide and trainer Manny Fernandes, who is a neutral observer to the action soon to unfold, agrees with the Hammer. "Harold is a great mentor and he's brought this kid along in leaps and bounds. As it is, Tommy is a lethal predator and his towering height makes him very difficult to tag. I can't see Mohale beating him. No way!"

As for the Chilembe-Ngumbu title bout, experts seem to agree that the 23-year-old Golden Boy will have a torrid fight on his hands, but his up-and-coming trainer Colin Nathan firmly believes that his slick boxing protégé will have the speed, power and savy with which to prevail.

"Issac is a wonderfully talented boxer-fighter and he's getting better all the time. Come fight night he will be psychologically juiced up for the occasion and Ngumbu will find that he has a real tiger on his hands, believe me" said Nathan.

What of the much publicized Simba, who'll be making his debut at the catchweight limit of 90 kgs? To quote promoter Rodney Berman, "We haven't finalized his opponent as yet, but he will be judiciously matched in accordance with his level of past amateur experience and I can assure fight fans that this 20-year-old newcomer has all the necessary ingredients with which to attain stardom. Moreover, as a student at university, he has the intelligence and presence of mind to know that boxing is a progressively demanding sport, and he has structured his thinking along the correct lines, which I have to believe will see him triumph at the highest level of his profession. Needless to say, though, that will take time and we won't be rushing him before he's equipped to handle the best there is".

07 October 2009 — Terry Pettifer

The saying goes that sometime in life everyone encounters what is termed a 'last chance saloon' and while this adage generally applies to those who require a final opportunity at making good, the portents could well be the same for former four-time world champion Zolani "The Untouchable" Marali (20-3, 13 knockouts) ahead of his vacant IBO lightweight title bout against the unbeaten Mlungisi "The Shark" Dlamini (20-0, 9 knockouts) on October 31 at Emperors Palace.

Knocked off his IBO junior lightweight perch by Korea's Ji Hoon Kim at the same venue recently, after having built up a substantial points lead, Marali must know that this is his final chance of attaining international stardom in what has often been called the " Sour Art". And insofar as the 32-year-old Marali is concerned, nothing could be quite as sour as losing to the multi-skilled Dlamini.

"Zolani had been battling with his weight prior to his last fight and I believe that he'll resurrect his career now that he's moved up to lightweight" said trainer Colin Nathan. The 10th round knockout defeat Marali sustained at the hands of Kim, however, reverberated around the fistic world and methinks nothing less than a comprehensive victory would dispel the notion that the Untouchable is a spent force.

"Boxing is one of the most unforgiving sports in the world and Marali should realize that there'll be no excuses if he fails against Dlamini" said manager Brian Mitchell. And fail he may if Dlamini's trainer Warren Hulley has his way. "Mlungisi is a naturally gifted athlete and you haven't begun to see his true worth as a fighter" said Hulley. "We certainly wouldn't have signed to fight Marali if we thought Dlamini was not going to win".

Golden Gloves Promoter Rodney Berman anticipates a 'war' on the night and the tournament banner; 'DAMOCLES' will definitely be applicable to one of the two fighters on the night.

A consensus of expert opinion, realized after polling 10 analysts, leans heavily in favour of Dlamini, whose rapid-fire combinations and astute boxing skills have eye-catching value throughout South Africa.

Trainer Manny Fernandes strongly fancies Dlamini to triumph on the night, as do a number of other prominent field personalities.

Not that Marali's trainer Colin Nathan hasn't impressed upon his charge the need to be at his very best when facing the younger Dlamini. "Zolani knows Dlamini fairly well and we've fashioned a definite battle strategy for this fight, although I'm not prepared to divulge the mechanics involved" said Nathan.

*BOOKING FOR THE EVENT HAS ALREADY OPENED AT COMPUTICKET*

07 October 2009 — Terry Pettifer

Born on May 17, 1987 in Blantyre, Malawi, the highly talented Miguel Isaac Chilemba Zuze has the charm and intelligence to have pursued a career in a variety of fields, yet instead, he decided to become a prize fighter. It was a wise decision, since the 22-year-old Chilembe has already made fine strides in his profession and is on the fringes of obtaining world recognition.

Having begun his fighting career on October 19, 2005 in South Africa, the "Golden Boy" has a record of 13-1, with 8 knockouts, and is a multi-skilled boxer with a dazzling assortment of punches. His career got off to a flying start with three stoppage wins in as many contests, but after going 8-0 (6 knockouts) Chilembe dropped a close 6-round points decision to the hard-fighting Wilberforce Shihepo on July 7, 2007.

Keen to reverse that setback, Chilembe eagerly agreed to a rematch, and a little over four months later, he avenged his only loss by pounding out a well-deserved victory over six rounds. Alternating his efforts between super middleweight and light heavyweight, Chilembe beat David Kitooke (TKO 8) and Chamunorwa Gonorenda (KO 4) in the early part of last year, before challenging Charles Adamu for the vacant Africa Boxing Union super middleweight title at Emperors Palace on September 13, 2008. The good-looking Chilembe fashioned an impressive 12-round win on the night, with scores that reflected his marked superiority; (117-110), (120-108), 9118-109) over an opponent with admirable credentials.

In June 2009, the transplanted Malawian fought erstwhile rival David Kitooke for the vacant WBO Africa light heavyweight belt and once again rose to the occasion, winning by scores of (118-110), (116-111) and (120-110).

Promoted by Golden Gloves Promotions (PTY) Ltd, coached by Colin Nathan and managed by Jody Solomon, the affable Chilembe is a threat to most light heavyweights in the world and though he still requires a fair degree of work, it's perhaps understandable that his promoter Rodney Berman believes he'll be ready for a world championship outing in the next twelve months.

Currently being primed for an October 31 meeting with undefeated WBC International light heavyweight champion Doudou Ngumbu of France, the sharp-witted Chilembe has a firm understanding of the challenge ahead.

"This will be my first real test" he said. "But I mean to take the opportunity with both hands and I feel confident of winning the title".

It couldn't happen to a nicer guy.

30 September 2009 — Terry Pettifer

Hekkie "Hex-ecutioner" Budler successfully defended his IBO Africa junior flyweight crown at Emperors Palace on Tuesday night, on the "Sugarboy Malinga Tribute" event with a hard-fought 12-round unanimous points victory over the game-as-they-come Doctor Ntsele of the Free State. Frankly the unheralded Ntsele put up a tremendous showing, often trading torrid punches with the unbeaten Budler, who after last night's performance took his record to 9-0, with 3 knockouts. The judges had Budler in front by 9, 5 and 3 points respectively, although most observers felt the fight was a lot closer than the first two judicators had tabbed it.

"Hekkie roared home a decisive winner but I think it was a hard and competitive bout throughout" said Jeff Ellis of African Ring.

Since the legendary Thulani "Sugarboy" Malinga was the guest of honour on the night, and recipient of a substantial fund raising effort, it figured that the tournament would attract a substantial crowd, and the organizers; African Ring, in conjunction with Golden Gloves Promotions, must have been pleased with the turnout.

Apart from the Budler/Ntsele bout, there was a welcome return to action for former SA super middleweight champion Andre Thysse, who at age 40, knocked out the rough-and-tough Emmanuel Duma in the 5th round of a rousing light heavyweight contest. The right hand punch that exploded against Duma's jaw, landed with awesome force and Duma had no possible hope of beating the count.

Newcome Papy Mongende benefited from having many Fernandes in his corner and posted a 4-round points win over Deon Coetzee in their heavyweight bout.

One of the most outstanding performances on the night, however, was delivered by streaking junior lightweight prospect Joe Stiglingh, who halted the brave but outgunned Solly Mokoka in the third round of their slated 4-rounder. With five wins under his belt, the hard-hitting Stiglingh is a real find and Golden Gloves Promoter said as much. "Yes, this kid can really go places and we plan to keep him very busy over the next year".

David Kitooke proved to be too strong and experienced for the seasoned Simon Mokoena in a 6-round light heavyweight bout and the ever-improving Stephen Castle, who despite being in his late thirties, notched up a bruising 4-round heavyweight win over the promising Kali Kelembe.

Other results included wins for Ashley Dlamini (TKO 2 over Shadrack Manaila) in the featherweight ranks, and debutant Wensley Buys, who stopped fellow newcomer Simon Milne in the opening heat of their 4-round lightweight contest.

30 September 2009 — Terry Pettifer

The Emperors Palace bill on October 31 hasn't been named "DAMOCLES" for nothing! Indeed, after hearing the product mix for this mouth-watering tournament, the proverbial "Sword of Damocles" will clearly be hovering over the heads of each of the contestants who will feature on the bill.

Moreover, notwithstanding the fact that on the night there are four titles at stake, fight fans will be keen to get their first look at Golden Gloves Promotions latest signing, the highly charismatic Flo Simba, who'll be making his long-awaited debut at the catchweight limit of 90kg. Promoter Rodney Berman has waxed lyrical about his newest kid on the block, and the 19-year-old Simba will obviously be looking to impress both the CEO of Golden Gloves Promotions as well as the fans themselves.

But this particular night's festivities will almost surely revolve around the four explosive championship bouts, and methinks the gore-seekers will be in their element! WBO Africa light heavyweight boss Isaac Chilembe (13-1, 8 knockouts) will assuredly be facing his sternest test to date when he challenges Doudou Ngumbu for the WBC International light heavyweight title, and based on the visiting champion's record, the 22-year-old Chilembe will have his hands- or should I say his gloves full. At age 27, Ngumbu, who hails from Toulouse in France, but fights out of the Congo, is undefeated in 20 bouts, and has registered 9 knockouts. Moreover since winning the WBC International light heavyweight crown against Seifudin Barakhoev on a 7th round stoppage in December 2008, Ngumbu has repulsed the challenge of Charles Chisamba, whom he beat on a shut-out decision.

"Isaac is a helluva prospect and he'll need every bit of his talent to beat this guy, who has gone 20-0 since turning professional in 2007" said Rodney Berman.

Then too the vacant WBO Africa super middleweight title will be on the line when two-time IBO youth world champion Tommy "Tommy Gun" Oosthuizen (9-0, 7 knockouts) squares up to current SA super middleweight champion Tshepang Mohale (7-2, 6 knockouts) over 12 rounds. The 21-year-old Oosthuizen is one of the hottest young prospects in the country at present, but he would be foolish to underestimate the big-hitting Mohale, who recently dethroned Kgotso Motau to win the national super middleweight title.

Possibly the most alluring championship fight on the roster, however, is that between WBF lightweight titleholder Mlungisi "The Shark" Dlamini (20-0, 12 knockouts) and Zolani "Untouchable" Marali (20-3, 13 knockouts). These two warriors will be fighting for the vacant IBO lightweight title. Marali only recently lost his IBO junior lightweight crown to Ji Hoon Kim at Emperors Palace, and because of weight trouble has decided to campaign in the lightweight ranks.

Mind you, he could hardly have a tougher assignment on his hands than a meeting with Dlamini, who has already shown signs of rare brilliance and a razor-sharp jab. Undeterred by his failure last time out, Marali seems to have regained his confidence and predicts an inside-the-distance win against the KwaZulu-Natal boxer.

The final title fight on the bill sees embattled boxer Jared "The Storm" Lovett (7-1, 6 knockouts) return to action following his points loss to Tommy Oosthuizen a few months back. Indications are that Lovett, who will henceforth be boxing as a cruiserweight, means business when he takes on Paraguay's Javier Corrales (5-1-2, 5 knockouts) for the vacant IBO super cruiserweight Youth title.

"Jared was drained from pulling weight in his last fight and now that he's more comfortable as a cruiserweight you will see a real storm" said manager Brian Mitchell. Promoter Berman sounded a warning, however, and knowing the CEO of Golden Gloves as we do, it would be wise for Lovett & Co to listen.

Mitchell. Promoter Berman sounded a warning, however, and knowing the CEO of Golden Gloves as we do, it would be wise for Lovett & Co to listen. "Corrales is a Hispanic fighter and they're always extremely tough and dangerous. Furthermore, this guy has knocked out every one of his opponents and that means he can really wallop. Lastly, he's currently placed second in the ratings in his homeland and that means….watch out!"

21 September 2009 — Terry Pettifer

Ricky Hatton's recent visit to South Africa bodes well for South Africa boxing and especially the fighters under the Golden Gloves & Banner promotional helm. "Ricky and his manager Gareth Williams are very excited about working with us on a long-term basis and you can rest assured that after the November 13 bill in Manchester, when Lovemore Ndou defends his IBO welterweight crown against Ricky's younger brother Matthew, we'll be working in close unison for a long time to come" said Berman. "As it is we have a rock-solid business relationship with Banner Promotions in the United States and the additional strength of Hatton Promotions, whereby we could collectively source fighters from the UK would be tremendously exciting".

While not as yet releasing details for his October 31 boxing bonanza at Emperors Palace, Berman did say that the event could feature no less than four championship titles on one night. "We'll be making a formal announcement soon, possibly later this week, but for now it's a question of getting the product mix right" added Berman.

The CEO of Golden Gloves Promotions, Berman's optimism about the immediate future is well founded and at a luncheon in Soweto last Sunday, team Hatton together with various members of Golden Gloves Promotions mapped out plans for an ongoing business relationship that could reap lucrative rewards for fighters on both sides of the Atlantic. "We have a large number of fine fighters under our promotional banner" said Hatton, who is now a recognized promoter in his own right. "Moreover it's been an absolute pleasure working with Rodney and Emperors Palace and we can't wait to return here, hopefully with several boxers of class. Can you imagine a regular ring rivalry between South Africa and Great Britain, with bouts on both shores? That has to be very exciting and augurs well for the future of fighters both in Britain and Africa".

Gareth Williams was equally impressed with the arrangement and added, "South Africa has a plethora of budding stars and Ricky and I are busy identifying numerous lads in Britain who have the potential to win world titles. Contests between your boxers in South Africa and athletes in Britain have always been real crackers and from what I've seen during two trips to your beautiful country, the likes of Lovemore Ndou, Isaac Chilembe, Tommy Oosthuizen, Hekkie Budler, Jared Lovett, Jason Bedeman and Grant Fourie are certainly exceptional talents. Then too, Rodney assures me that his latest signing Florance Simba –who makes his professional debut on October 31- is an extremely rare talent and naturally we'd be delighted to see him in action in Britain before too long".

17 September 2009 — Terry Pettifer

Hekkie "The Hex-ecutioner" Budler will top the African Ring/Golden Gloves Promotions "GOLDEN TRIBUTE NIGHT to Sugarboy Malinga" at Emperors Palace's Theatre of Marcellus on September 29. The event takes the form of a glittering Box & Dine event that is essentially designed to raise funds for one of South Africa's finest ever boxers, Thulani "Sugarboy" Malinga. A former two-time WBC super middleweight champion, Malinga has experienced more than his fair share of personal sorrow and financial difficulty and on the night of September 29 we hope to substantially assist this former stalwart of SA boxing.

So what is the evening's line-up?

The blonde-haired Hekkie Budler, who is the current IBO Africa junior flyweight champion, will be topping the bill when he puts his IBO Africa junior flyweight championship on the line against Doctor Ntsele, a strong and dangerous challenger over 10-rounds. The tournament also features another 7 bouts with prominent fighters like the veteran former SA champion Andre Thysse making a comeback over 8 rounds in the light heavyweight division against the rock-hard Emmanuel Duma, and junior lightweight sensation Joey Stiglingh looking to extend his unbeaten run when he meets Solly Mokoka over a slated 4 rounds.

"This bill has a fine blend of budding talent as well as seasoned professionals and I'm looking at attracting a full-house audience on the night" said African Ring Promoter Jeff Ellis, who'll be auctioning various boxing items of interest on the night. One of South African boxing's most experienced organizers, Ellis has, with the assistance of Golden Gloves matchmaker Ruben Rasodi, come up with a rousing tournament undercard that also sees the likes of former amateur star Ashley Dlamini take on Shadrack mamaila over 4 rounds at featherweight, and heavyweight contender Stephen Castle –whose renowned for posting wins against the odds- look to strengthen his record when he fights Kali Kelembe over 4 heats.

Harold Volbrecht still believes that his burgeoning heavyweight Deon Coetzee (2-1) has a future in the division, despite losing to Stephen Castle on points in his last outing, and he'll be hoping for his charge to get back on song when he squares up to Papi Mongende over 4 rounds.

Simon Milne and Wensley Buys meet over 4 frames in a lightweight curtain-raiser and Simon Mokoena will be looking to beat back the challenge of david Bassajamivule in a super middleweight encounter that could provide plenty of action. "Most of the focus will naturally be on the likes of Budler, Thysse and Stiglingh" said Ellis, "but believe me the likes of Dlamini, Castle and Coetzee are proving to be extremely popular".

It's reliably understood that Budler, who breeds pythons as a hobby, will be fighting for the IBO world junior flyweight during 2010 and he'll no doubt be at his fiery best against an opponent with a highly credible reputation. "Where Hekkie is concerned, defeat is not even an option and 2010 could be the year in which he proves himself on the international circuit" said Golden Gloves Promoter Rodney Berman.

Meanwhile the 40-year-old Thysse is coming back to prove a point and when one considers his past achievements as a super middleweight in the world championship arena, it would be unwise to write him off. After all he still owns one of the finest uppercuts in the business.

15 September 2009 — Terry Pettifer

Ji-Hoon Kim of Goyang City, South Korea, won the IBO junior lightweight title with a sensational upset tenth-round TKO win against defending champion Zolani "Untouchable" Marali in the main event at Emperors Palace in Kempton, South Africa, on September 12. The event was promoted by Rodney Berman's Golden Gloves and Arthur Pelullo's Banner Promotions, and televised live in South Africa on Supersport.

Promoter Art Pelullo said, "I want to congratulate Ji-Hoon on his spectacular win. He was going against some formidable odds - Marali is an excellent boxer and was fighting on his home turf with the entire crowd behind him – but Ji-Hoon did what he had to do. He kept the pressure on, steadily wore down Marali, and won by decisive knockout.

"Ji-Hoon has opened the doors for himself for bigger opportunities in the future with this win, and we have big plans for him that will be announced soon."

WBC No. 6 ranked Marali, now 20-3 with 13 knockouts, of Mdantsane, South Africa, was making his first defense of the IBO title. The clear favorite to win, he boxed and moved effectively in the early rounds and dominated the scoring. But Kim, now 17-5 with 14 knockouts, constantly pressed forward and landed the more damaging punches - he bloodied Marali's nose in the sixth round and rocked him with two right hands inthe seventh.

Kim wore down Marali as the rounds progressed and scored two knockdowns, both with right hands, in the tenth round– Marali got up both times, but was on very unsteady legs after the second knockdown and the referee stopped the fight at 0:28.

14 September 2009 — Terry Pettifer

Remember the splintering series of 'Rocky' movies in which Sylvester Stallone portrayed a fighter who seemingly grew stronger and more incredibly hard to beat with every follow-up production? Well in the opinion of Golden Gloves Promoter Rodney Berman, the fiery Jason "Badman" Bedeman (9-0-2), who won the vacant IBO Africa lightweight title on Saturday night at Emperors Palace by stopping the previously unbeaten Grant "The Fireball" Fourie on a 10th round knockout, may well be the real life replica of Rocky Balboa.

It has to be said though that the ruggedly handsome 20-year-old fighter from Rosettenville in the Southern Suburbs is hardly the carcass-punching social bruiser that Stallone depicted in the original Rocky movie. "Jason has the looks, durability and magnetic appeal that so aptly lends itself to professional fighting, and I'm betting this kid becomes one of the hottest names in South African boxing" said Golden Gloves Promoter Rodney Berman.

Renowned local boxing artist Driscoll Pettifer was quick to agree. "Jason is an everyday, hard-working fighter who strives to attain his goals in a simple and uncomplicated fashion and it's my bet that he'll become a respected international champion in the very near future" said Pettifer.

Essentially a come forward fighter who wears his heart on his sleeve, the blonde-haired Bedeman made a tremendous impression on fight fans by becoming the first man ever to defeat Fourie in 11 professional fights, and yet Bedeman remained as humble after the contest as he'd been preparing for the match.

"Jason is hardly a big-headed fighter and yet despite his humility he pursues his goals with an intense single-mindedness that is the envy of most athletes" said trainer Manny Fernandes.

Given Bedeman's tremendous dedication and uncommon grit it figures that a number of experienced analysts were struck by the manner in which he fought the faster and flashier Fourie. "Bedeman is nowhere near being as good a boxer (as Fourie) but in a war of attrition, give me the Badman every time" said one long-serving ringside oracle. Booked to fight for the vacant WBA Intercontinental lightweight title at Emperors Palace on October 31, Bedeman confessed that his recent outing on a Golden Gloves Promotional bill was "a dream come true" and says that nothing matches the thrill of fighting in front of a packed Emperors Palace crowd.

"I'm now headed for the big league and with Manny guiding the reins, nothing will stop us" said a swollen-faced Bedeman after his championship-winning fight.

In the meanwhile, Promoter Berman is carefully mapping out his strategy for South Africa's newest young champion on the block.

14 September 2009 — Terry Pettifer

Golden Gloves Promoter Rodney Berman is used to rainbows that fade and while his disappointment at seeing his IBO junior lightweight champion Zolani "Untouchable" Marali carelessly lose his world title to South Korea's Ji Hoon Kim , Berman was quick to offer both his deposed IBO titleholder and trainer Colin Nathan some comforting words of advice. "Zolani was miles ahead on the scorecards going into the 9th round and though I could hear numerous acolytes, including his mentor Colin Nathan, screaming for him to lift his guard, his complacency cost him the championship" said Berman.

The sudden and concussive manner in which Marali crumpled under a two-punch combination early in the ninth round has inspired more than a few critics to question English referee Phil Edwards' decision to stop the fight, especially since the visibly shaken Marali had already risen to his feet. Berman, however, never looks for excuses and his only comment to this writer after the fight enhanced his reputation as one of the finest on-the-spot analysts in the game. "Marali was ahead by a race-course" quipped Berman, "but he literally threw it (the contest) away by clowning at a time when urgency was the order of the day". The CEO of South African boxing's most successful consortium concluded by saying, :Naturally there's a great deal of soul searching ahead for Zolani, particularly since he's already in his early 30's and this match was meant to confirm his right to fight for the WBC junior lightweight crown".

That both former two-time world champion Brian Mitchell and Britain's visiting boxing icon Ricky Hatton felt that the stoppage in the Marali bout was "somewhat premature" hasn't softened the impact of Marali's defeat and insiders agree that the former four-time world champion has only himself to blame for his third loss in 23 outings.

"Marali is outrageously talented but his ploy of dropping his hands cost him dearly" said veteran fight buff Paul Hetz.

And what of Berman's other starlet Grant "The Fireball" Fourie, who rather surprisingly was halted by Jason "Badman" Bedeman in the 10th round of a bruising battle for the vacant IBO Africa lightweight title?

"I've been saying for a long time that Grant, who was undefeated going into the Bedeman fight, is not a natural lightweight and though certain critics have criticized Fourie's trainer Colin Nathan for tossing in the towel in the 10th round of a torrid and uncompromising fight, it's always easy to sermonize when you're on the safe side of the ropes. Grant was knocked down several times and although he fought back bravely and was in the process of staging a courageous rally, Nathan was closer to the action than most observers and his decision to surrender may well have saved Fourie from sustaining serious injury. How can anyone really be sure?" asked Berman.

What is evident, however, is the fact that Berman believes Fourie's pugilistic future lays in the junior lightweight ranks. "The kid is built along the lines of South Africa's 'Hall of Famer' Brian Mitchell and henceforth he needs to confine his activities accordingly. Are you listening Grant?" added Berman.

Mind you, eye-catching championship victories on Saturday evening's "NIGHT of the GLADIATORS" tournament at Emperors Palace for Tommy "Tommy Gun" Oosthuizen (9-0, 7 knockouts) and Jason "Badman" Bedeman (9-0-2, 7 knockouts) –who won the vacant IBO Youth super middleweight and IBO Africa lightweight titles respectively- were also touched upon by Berman, who sees in both fighters the potential to lift major sanctioning organization titles.

"Oosthuizen will be fighting on our October 31 bill fistic extravaganza at Emperors Palace and judging by the manner in which he handled the tough-as-teak Cleber Alves to win his second IBO Youth title, I naturally expect bigger and better things from him, though I have to say that in his next fight he'll be in for the most critical test of his budding career".

The flaxen-haired Bedeman clearly impressed Berman and the Rosettenville fighter will now fight for the vacant WBA Intercontinental lightweight crown on Berman's glittering bill at Emperors Palace on October 31.

"Bedeman is a local replica of Sylvester Stallone's 'Rocky' and methinks this 20-year-old could become a drawcard of immense proportion. Moreover his trainer Manny Fernandes has really done a splendid job honing his instinctive skills" said Berman.

09 September 2009 — Terry Pettifer

The winner of Saturday night's IBO Africa lightweight title bout between Jason "Badman" Bedeman (8-0-2) and Grant "The Fireball" Fourie (10-0-1) will be fighting for the vacant WBA Intercontinental lightweight crown at Emperors Palace on October 31.

This was confirmed early this morning by both Golden Gloves Promoter Rodney Berman and South Africa's world famous referee and WBA representative Stan Christodoulou. "Its tremendous news" said Berman. "Finally after months of perseverance our negotiations with Stan and the WBA have borne fruition and Saturday night's pair of unbeaten combatants have an additional bonus to fight for".

Christodoulou, who has had decades of experience in professional boxing, has always maintained a trusted working relationship with the WBA and besides being one of the greatest and most respected boxing officials of all time, he was also the very first South African ever to be inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame.

"I'm really delighted that the WBA have given Rodney the right to sanction the vacant WBA Intercontinental lightweight title bout in South Africa, and one which involves the winner of the Fourie/Bedeman fight" said Christodoulou.

Moreover, Christodoulou confirmed that Golden Gloves had offered him the opportunity to referee the afore-mentioned contest, and that he had accepted their offer. "It will be a privilege to once again referee a title contest on my home soil" said Christodoulou. The WBA Intercontinental lightweight title became vacant when Britain's Amir Kahn went up in weight and won the super lightweight world title.

09 September 2009 — Terry Pettifer

Grant "The Fireball" Fourie (10-0-1) is preparing himself mentally for what promises to be a 'bull versus matador' clash against Jason "Badman" Bedeman (8-0-2) at Emperors Palace on Saturday night. The two unbeaten prospects will be fighting for the vacant IBO Africa lightweight crown. "I know that he likes to 'mix it' and no doubt he'll try to turn the contest into a war from the opening bell" said Fourie. "Be that as it may, I'm ready for anything that Bedeman brings into the ring and if I've got to beat him at his own game, then so be it".

Methinks that won't be the case, however, and whereas the Bedeman camp are essentially banking on wearing down the Fireball in the later rounds, Fourie would be foolish to stand toe-to-toe with a vibrant 20-year-old opponent who loves nothing more than a pier-six fight. "We are counting on a number of factors" said Bedeman's knowledgeable trainer Manny Fernandes, "not the least being Jason's inherent strength and sizzling work rate".

Mind you, Bedeman, who hails from the Southern Suburbs of Johannesburg, can box and Fernandes has been working tirelessly on improving his jab, which he believes could be a pivotal weapon in the championship rounds. "Anyone who thinks Jason is just a brawler is in for a very rude awakening" added Fernandes. "We've put Fourie in a test tube and know both his strengths and weaknesses and come Saturday night, Jason will use everything we've managed to assess to win the IBO Africa title".

Still it would be very uncharacteristic for the Badman to suddenly adopt a more cautious approach to his warring principles and experts agree that if the Rosettenville fighter is to triumph it will be more in lieu of his robust biff-bang sermons than text-book boxing skills.

"This bout could be more of a bull-fight than a technical battle of wits" said Golden Gloves Promoter Rodney Berman. "Having said that, who really expects Elvis to sing like Caruso?"

That the consensus of expert opinion leans slightly towards Fourie is hardly surprising though especially when one considers his advantages in terms of rhythm, defence and movement. "Fourie is a sharp-shooter with pin-point accuracy and he carries a terrific left hook" said African Ring publisher Jeff Ellis, who tips the Fireball to win a protracted battle over 12 rounds.

"This could be a grimly fought contest that could seesaw back and forth" said Golden Gloves matchmaker Ruben Rasodi.

And from this writer's neutral perch, that just about sums up a contest that I'm predicting will be in line for 'Fight of the Year'.

07 September 2009 — Terry Pettifer

While no one doubts that Tommy "Tommy Gun" Oosthuizen (9-0, 8 knockouts) is an odds-on favourite to win the vacant IBO Youth world super middleweight title at Emperors Palace on September 12, when he faces Brazil's Cleber Alves (5-1, 4 knockouts), it would be foolhardy to dismiss the Parana-based Brazilian's chances altogether. So says Golden Gloves Promoter Rodney Berman.

"Look, Alves is a 23-year-old puncher from the Curitiba region of Parana and while he's substantially shorter than Oosthuizen, he does have a 66.67 KO %, which in my book sends out alarm signals. Yes, we definitely expect Tommy to win, and thereby add a second IBO Youth world title to his showcase (he previously won the IBO Youth light heavyweight crown) but don't let anyone tell you that Alves is a no-hoper, because that's utter rot!"

Mind you, though the highly experienced Berman is possibly correct in his wary approach to an opponent Oosthuizen knows little about, it would be accurate to say that the 178cm tall Alves is relatively untested in terms of opposition.

Indeed since turning professional in May 2007, the big hitting Brazilian has encountered no one of real note, having registered stoppages over the likes of Alexandre Rodrigo Souza (KO 2), Augusto de Melo (KO 3) and Sergio Lopes Noqueira (KO 1). He outpointed the fairly useful Paulo Sergio Bueno over 8 rounds in his last fight in May this year and avenged an earlier 8-round points loss to Emerson Ferreira by halting his opponent in the 6th round. "By all accounts this guy is still learning the ropes –pardon the pun- but don't think he can't punch" warned George Blake of the United States. "In fact this kid has a punch like a mules kick and Oosthuizen would be well advised to use his undeniable boxing skills, which earned him the IBO Youth light heavyweight title against Jared "The Storm" Lovett in July, rather than looking to land an early haymaker" said Blake.

Veteran fight observer Jeff Ellis nodded knowingly in accord, and was moved to point out the age-old boxing adage that ca puncher has always got a chance, and this fellow (Alves) can really crack, nuff said".

One of the tallest super middleweights in the history of boxing, Oosthuizen (6'5") is, however very difficult to hit and his slippery head movement is complimented by his devastating ability as a counter puncher. "Most southpaws are natural counter punchers" said trainer Harold Volbrecht, who believes that his beanstalk fighter is arguably the hardest hitter at his weight on the planet. "Few people really appreciate how hard Tommy hits, but I think that you'll see him at his most paralyzing best in this world title bout, and rest assured we won't be underestimating Alves, who has proved himself a robust puncher".

The press conference for the NIGHT OF THE GLADIATORS event on September 12, takes place on Tuesday (September 8), at 12-noon at the Negotiating Council Chamber at Emperors Palace's Convention Centre.

04 September 2009 — Terry Pettifer

Fight fever has gripped Gauteng ahead of Ricky Hatton's arrival in South Africa next week where he'll do television commentary on the Emperors Palace "NIGHT OF THE GLADIATORS" tournament on September 12. "Ricky is immensely popular and it certainly showsby the wave of feverish excitement leading up to his arrival next Thursday (September 10)" said Golden Gloves Promoter Rodney Berman.

One of Britain's most successful and gallant pugilists of the post-war era, Hatton is exceptionally colourful and his trip to South Africa has elicited tremendous response from fight fans throughout the country. "I,ve even had calls from guys in Cape Town who want to meet Hatton" said Berman.

Berman added, "Ricky will be meeting the press shortly after arriving and I feel confident that he'll live up to all expectations and field questions with the same type of uncomplicated sincerity that is so typical of the man" concluded Berman.

Meanwhile Tuesday's pre-fight medical and press conference will take place at the Negotiating Chamber at Emperors Palace, which is situated in the main Convention Centre. After Hatton's arrival on Thursday, he'll attend Friday's official weigh-in at Assembly 4 (also in the Convention Centre) before signing autographs outside of Tiberius (near Monzoon Lagoon).

Ricky is really looking forward to doing television commentary with South Africa's Hall of Famer Brian Mitchell and methinks he'll do a sterling job. Moreover don't forget that Golden Gloves Promotions are looking at a possible match-up between Ricky and our IBO welterweight champion Lovemore Ndou in 2010, which would coincide with next year's football World Cup. first though, Ndou has to successfully defend his IBO title against Ricky's younger brother Matthew, in a bout that takes place on November 13 in Manchester, England!