Thulani Mbenge’s steep learning curve will continue August 13 when he makes the first defence of his SA welterweight title at Emperors Palace.
The man they call ‘Tulz’ will fight top-rated contender Mzoxolo Ndwayana (15-2-2), who will be fighting out of his Eastern Cape corner for just the second time.
Ndwayana had his first crack at the national title three years ago and most recently knocked out Anelisa Gungqisa last year. He’s said to be a better than average puncher who will be looking to grab his big opportunity against one of SA boxing’s best young fighters.
In his most recent fight, Mbenge went the distance for the first time in his career against Jayar Inson of the Philippines. While he exhibited the full range of his talents, his inexperience also showed at times; lapses he’ll be looking to avoid against a rugged local fighter like Ndwayana.
The fight will form part of the undercard of the championship bill headed by Kevin Lerena against Russia’s Max Maslov for the IBO cruiserweight belt.
