Titles on the line for Khayelitsha boxers

A year ago, when Asekho Nocele made his professional boxing debut, this writer confidently predicted, like many who follow his career, that within two years, he’d have a championship belt wrapped around his waist.

Known in boxing circles as “The Black Italian,” Nocele humorously replied, “Two years? I say by next year (2024), I should have the first of many belts.”

True to his word, with five bouts to his name, he is now making strides towards an African title to add to his Western Cape Bantamweight title.

This Friday at the Sunningdale Sports Complex, the 20-year-old boxing phenomenon steps up to fight for the WBF Africa Bantamweight belt.

Opposite him will be Ayanda Gangqa in the 10-round clash.

This will be Nocele’s second scheduled 10-rounder, but he has yet to fight beyond the fourth round, having dispatched his previous opponent within three rounds of the scheduled 10.

With youth, power, and momentum on his side, Nocele will be out to make another statement as he eyes more success in the squared circle.

Adding to the night’s bill is another rising star, Lwando Mgabi, who will fight for the South African Junior Bantamweight title.

Mgabi, with a flawless 6-0 record, recently captured the WBF African Super Flyweight title by decision against Lebogang Pilane in his last outing.

He, like Nocele, also confidently told this writer at the time that the belt was only the start of a great career ahead.

It surely will be the toughest challenge of his career, as he faces the experienced Sihle Jelwana, a battle-tested opponent with multiple title fights under his belt.

Fighting in front of his home crowd should give Mgabi a confidence boost as he looks to continue his rise in South African boxing.