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The heartbeat of South African boxing returns to where it all began – Soweto. On Thursday,
5 December 2025, the Eyethu Heritage Hall in Mofolo will host “Bringing Sexy Back – Boxing
Meets Fashion,” a groundbreaking all-female boxing extravaganza featuring 12 women
fighters across six divisions. This landmark event celebrates the revival of boxing in Soweto,
led boldly and beautifully by women who are stepping into the ring to reignite one of South
Africa’s most storied sports.
The event blends sport, style, and empowerment, staged at the iconic Eyethu Heritage Hall
– a venue synonymous with township pride and artistic legacy. Female boxers from across
South Africa – and beyond, including Malawi – will battle it out in a night that promises
intensity, inspiration, and pure entertainment.
Beyond the bouts, the evening pays tribute to Soweto’s boxing greats — icons who paved
the way for today’s champions. Among those honoured are trainer Ntate Norman “Bra Nox”
Hlabane, Lehlohonolo “Hands of Stone” Ledwaba, Arthur “The Fighting Prince” Mayisela,
Enoch “Schoolboy” Hlapo, Dingaan “The Rose of Soweto” Thobela, and Jacob “Baby Jake”
Matlala. Their enduring legacy continues to shape South African boxing. Bra Nox will also be
introduced as an ambassador for the sport and mentor to the next generation of coaches
through upcoming mentorship programmes.
“This event is more than a boxing tournament – it’s a movement,” says Ms. Joy Mahanetsa,
spokesperson for the Women in Boxing initiative and event promoter. “We’re reigniting a
powerful legacy and placing women at the centre of a story that began in Soweto — one that
belongs to every South African who loves boxing and believes in its future. It’s beauty,
heritage, and fashion — all in one ring.”
“Boxing has always been part of our culture — from Madiba’s training days at the YMCA to
our world champions’ triumphs on the global stage,” adds Mahanetsa. “Now, it’s time to bring
that pride home.” With “Bringing Sexy Back”, we’re reviving that spirit, empowering women,
and bringing communities together in celebration of resilience and style.
The night will feature six electrifying bouts, local performances, and a celebration of South
Africa’s sporting and cultural heritage. It’s not just a fight card – it’s an experience that
merges glamour and grit, reminding audiences that boxing still has the power to inspire,
unite, and entertain. Premium tickets include a full three-course dining experience, along
with complimentary beverages for the duration of the event.
Together, we’re bringing back the glamour, confidence, and power of South African boxing —
this is where boxing meets fashion.
Main Fight: Gauteng Super Middleweight Title
1. Rita Mrwebi (Gauteng) vs Kholosa Ndobayini (Eastern Cape)
Supporting Fights:
1. Lightweight (8 rounds)
Bonita van Jaarseveldt (Gauteng) vs Asezakhe Jamani (Eastern Cape)
2. Junior Featherweight (8 rounds)
Thobela Nyanda (South Africa) vs Harriet Mtende (Malawi)
3. Bantamweight (6 rounds)
Gabisile Tshabalala (Gauteng) vs Asandiswa Nxokwana (Eastern Cape)
4. Flyweight (4 rounds)
Keabetswe Mathane (Gauteng) vs Winnie Sithole (North West)
5. Flyweight (4 rounds)
Libra Mtarini (Gauteng) vs Abigail Gabonewa (North West)
EVENT DETAILS
Venue: Eyethu Heritage Hall, Mofolo, Soweto
Date: 5 December 2025
Time: 18:00 till late
Tickets: Available now on Webtickets
About VIP Promotions
VIP Promotions is dedicated to elevating South African boxing by empowering female
athletes, reviving township arenas, and celebrating the cultural heartbeat of the sport.
Through platforms like Bringing Sexy Back – Boxing Meets Fashion, the organisation
continues to merge sport, style, and social impact, creating opportunities for women to shine
both in and beyond the ring.
Supported and Sanctioned by: Boxing South Africa
In Partnership with: Brand South Africa, Gauteng Department of Sport, Arts and Culture,Sportslive and Prisma Flex
INFO SUPPLIED.