Those lucky enough to have attended or streamed the recent Golden Gloves/iME Cares development tournament at Emperors Palace would attest to the high quality nature of the event.
There were several terrific bouts and fans saw the emergence of Charlton Malajika and Sanele Sogcwayi among a big group of promising fighters.
The good news is that iME Cares, an independent non-profit, and philanthropic arm of the iME family, wants to help underwrite two to three more such events this year, reflecting the brand’s commitment to making technology accessible and beneficial for all.
The “Next Level” series will give a variety of up and comers a chance, not only those aligned to Golden Gloves. With June pencilled in for the next show at Emperors Palace, it’s likely that Keanu Koopman, the SA welterweight champion, will headline. Although not strictly a prospect, his 7-1 record reflects a fighter still learning his craft.
Others likely to get a turn include Ariel Meez-Raci, whose first-round KO at the last event discarded any notion of debut nerves. Ndabazinhle Phiri, a junior bantamweight, will also get another opportunity, plus the exciting pair of Tyla Promnick and Saarah Karriem, whose tear through the amateurs has already attracted a fan base in Cape Town.
“We would do it sooner, but with shows on every month the first realistic gap is June,” said promoter Rodney Berman, who is toying with the idea of using the more intimate Theatre of Marcellus at the famous casino venue. “There’s a rich seam of boxing talent coming through, so I’m delighted that iME Cares are supporting these youngsters, who deserve every opportunity.”
