The Rose of Soweto
Former three-time world champion Dingaan Thobela, who died this week after a short illness, aged 57, was arguably the most gifted boxer of post-apartheid South Africa
05 May 2024 - 00:00
He was one of the most prominent fighters, for a while dating then Miss South Africa Basetsana Makgalemele, driving fast cars and commanding the attention of Nelson Mandela. On the night that Dingaan Thobela challenged American Tony Lopez for the World Boxing Association (WBA) lightweight strap at Sun City in 1993, Mandela, then ANC president, held a press briefing at the old Jan Smuts airport before flying out the country. ..
Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.
There’s never been a more important time to support independent media.
From World War 1 to present-day cosmopolitan South Africa and beyond, the Sunday Times has been a pillar in covering the stories that matter to you.
For just R80 you can become a premium member (digital access) and support a publication that has played an important political and social role in South Africa for over a century of Sundays. You can cancel anytime.
Already subscribed? Sign in below.
Questions or problems? Email helpdesk@timeslive.co.za or call 0860 52 52 00.