Landile Ngxeke is set to face Charlton Malajika for the vacant IBO bantamweight title at Emperors Palace in Kempton Park on November 21. Ngxeke, managed by Colin Nathan, aims to bring the title home and spoil the Malajika family's celebrations following brother Ricardo's recent WBC title win in Japan. The bout marks the resumption of working relations between Ngxeke's manager and Golden Gloves Promotions, which promotes the Malajika brothers.

The Malajika family is riding high after Ricardo's stunning upset against Tomoya Tsuboi in Japan, making him the sixth South African boxer to win a WBC title. Charlton Malajika, Ricardo's younger brother, will look to continue the family's winning streak against Ngxeke. Charlton's last bout against David Mwale in Zambia ended in a draw, sparking controversy and fueling his determination to secure a win.

Ngxeke, from KuGompo City, is seeking redemption after losing to Jose Salas Reyes in December 2025, failing to win the IBF world title. He rebounded with a win against Jonas Matheus in May, reviving his world title aspirations. Ngxeke believes he has a chance against Malajika, having faced better-quality opponents in the past.

Manager Colin Nathan has expressed confidence in Ngxeke's abilities, stating that he is in the right frame of mind and preparing well for the fight. The team is working on a game plan, with plenty of sparring sessions to ensure they leave nothing to chance. Nathan acknowledged that Charlton is a good fighter, but Ngxeke is determined to secure the win.

The IBO title offer was too good to turn down, according to Nathan, as it would get Ngxeke back to the world stage. Although Nathan-managed boxers rarely contest for IBO belts, the opportunity to win a world title was not to be missed. Ngxeke will be vying to make a statement and bring the title home.

Charlton Malajika will look to capitalize on his family's momentum, with his brother Ricardo's win serving as inspiration. The Malajika family's celebrations will continue if Charlton secures the win, but Ngxeke is determined to spoil the party. The stage is set for an exciting clash between the two boxers.

The fight will signal a renewed partnership between trainer Colin Nathan and Golden Gloves Promotions, marking a significant development in the boxing world. With both boxers eager to secure the win, the stage is set for a thrilling encounter at Emperors Palace on November 21.

Key points

  • Landile Ngxeke to face Charlton Malajika for the vacant IBO bantamweight title at Emperors Palace on November 21.
  • Ngxeke seeks redemption after losing to Jose Salas Reyes in December 2025.
  • The fight marks the resumption of working relations between Ngxeke's manager and Golden Gloves Promotions.

Share this story

Written by

SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.