Boxing enthusiasts throughout South Africa, including government officials, politicians, and fans, have expressed their condolences and heartfelt praises for the late former world champion Dingaan “The Rose of Soweto” Thobela, who passed away on Monday.
Thobela, revered as one of the nation’s finest boxers, was discovered deceased in his apartment in Johannesburg at the age of 57.
Reports indicate that Thobela had been battling illness for an extended period.
Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Zizi Kodwa has paid tribute to the late South African boxing legend Dingaan Thobela, describing him as one of the world’s standout fighters.
“Thobela fought in some of the most memorable bouts, such as the fights against Tony Lopez for the World Boxing Association (WBA) lightweight title and against Glenn Catley to win the World Boxing Council (WBC) super-middleweight title.
“Through his success and popularity, Thobela was one of the world’s standout fighters in a golden period of South African boxing,” the Minister said on Tuesday.
Tributes from social media:
Kevin Lerena, who holds World Boxing Council interim bridgerweight title since 2023 and previously held the IBO cruiserweight title from 2017 to 2021 also paid tribute.
“Rest in peace to South African boxing legend Dingaan Thobela. Your talent and determination in the ring will never be forgotten. You always supported me and believed in my abilities, pushing me to reach my fullest potential.Thank you for your inspiration and motivation, Champ”
“I’m totally devastated, shattered and lost for words to hear about the passing of a life hero and friend, Dingaan Thobela. Rest in eternal peace my friend. My deepest condolences to the family.”