SOWETO once again took centre stage in South African boxing as ‘Bringing Sexy Back’ – Boxing Meets Fashion delivered an electrifying night of women’s boxing at the Eyethu Multifunctional Venue in Mofolo, last Friday.
The landmark all-female event, which blended elite sport, culture and style, was headlined by a dominant performance from Rita Mrwebi, who was crowned Cruiserweight Champion, affirming her position as one of Gauteng’s leading fighters and marking a significant moment in the rise of women’s boxing.
The evening drew strong attendance from across government and the boxing fraternity, a clear indication of the event’s national significance.
Among those present were Deputy Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Peace Mabe; the CEO of Boxing South Africa (BSA), Tsholofelo Lejako, accompanied by the entire BSA team; and the BSA Chairwoman, Ayanda Zamantungwa Khumalo.
The packed venue and vibrant atmosphere underscored the growing public support for women-led boxing platforms.
In attendance from the boxing fraternity were several past champions including Hekkie Budler, Sive Nontjinga, Phumelele Cafu, William Gare, Takalani Ndlovu, and Sipho Mwelase, all of whom lend prestige and history to the occasion.
Commenting on the night, lead promoter and Women in Boxing initiative spokesperson, Joy Mahanetsa, said the event exceeded all expectations.
“This night proved that women’s boxing has both the talent and the audience to thrive. Bringing Sexy Back – Boxing Meets Fashion was about restoring pride, amplifying women’s voices in the sport, and showing that boxing in Soweto is alive and moving forward.
It was also deeply important for us to honour legends who laid the foundation for South African boxing.
Celebrating Ntate Norman Hlabane, who trained greats such as Baby Jake Matlala and Dingaan Thobela, in partnership with Brand South Africa, was a powerful moment that connected our sport’s rich past with its promising future.”
The fight card featured competitive match-ups and impressive performances from fighters across South Africa and the continent, reinforcing the depth and quality of women’s boxing talent on display.
Image top (Cruiserweight champion Rita Mrwebi recorded exchanging punches with a challenger on Friday, in Soweto).
