The All Winners Boxing Club in Mdantsane, South Africa, has reopened its doors after a temporary closure following the tragic death of its former member and two-time world champion, Zolani Tete. Tete was shot and killed at his home in August, leaving the boxing community in shock. The club, which was established in 2013, had to close its doors as a mark of respect for its most loyal member.
Local boxers played a significant role in reviving the gym, urging manager Mlandlei Tengimfene to reopen the facility. They volunteered to clean and refit the gym, demonstrating their commitment to honouring Tete's memory. Tengimfene confirmed that the boxers' efforts were instrumental in getting the gym up and running again. The club's reopening is seen as a positive step towards preserving Tete's legacy.
With the gym back in operation, plans are underway to officially rename it in Tete's honour. Two possible names have emerged: 'Last Born Boxing Club' and 'Zolani Tete Boxing Club'. The name 'Last Born Boxing Club' is a reference to Tete's ring name, while 'Zolani Tete Boxing Club' is a more straightforward tribute. Tengimfene stated that the final decision on the name will be made after some legalities are taken care of.
The All Winners Boxing Club has a rich history of producing talented boxers, including SA champions Makazole Tete, Siyakholwa Kuse, and Mthokozisi Ngxaka. Tete himself was a key figure in the club, not only as a member but also as a part-owner and trainer. His death left a void in the club, but the appointment of rising trainer Lonki Witbooi as the new head trainer has brought new hope.
Lonki Witbooi has started assessing the gym's setup and will begin training sessions on Monday. He will work with the club's existing boxers and integrate them into the new setup. Tengimfene expressed his confidence in Witbooi's ability to lead the club forward. The club's management is committed to ensuring that Tete's legacy lives on through the gym's continued success.
The closure of the All Winners Boxing Club had left some of its boxers stranded, with some seeking refuge in other clubs around Mdantsane. Tengimfene acknowledged that the club's closure had caused some disruption, but he is pleased that the gym is now back in operation. The club's reopening is seen as a testament to the boxing community's resilience and commitment to preserving Tete's memory.
The reopening of the All Winners Boxing Club is a significant development for the boxing community in Mdantsane. With its rich history and commitment to producing talented boxers, the club is poised to continue its success in the future. As the club moves forward, it will do so with a renewed sense of purpose, honouring the memory of its former champion, Zolani Tete.
Key points
- The All Winners Boxing Club in Mdantsane has reopened after a temporary closure due to Zolani Tete's death.
- The club plans to officially rename it in Tete's honour, with 'Last Born Boxing Club' and 'Zolani Tete Boxing Club' emerging as possible names.
- Rising trainer Lonki Witbooi has taken over training duties at the club.
