The drama-filled circumstantial end of Sibusiso Zingange’s reign as the SA junior lightweight boxing champion was more excruciating than the actual pain he endured when his shoulder dislocated in the ninth round during his defence to Lunga Stimela in Sandton last month.
Zingange suffered so much pain that he was unable to continue with the fight he seemed to be winning. He did not come out of his corner going into the 10th round and Stimela from Cape Town was crowned the new champion, winning the title by a technical knockout.
Zingange – who had won the title in February from Phila Mpontshane – told Sowetan on Tuesday that he can now use his hand.
“But I was advised medically to go under the knife and fix my shoulder once and for all to avoid further disappointments,” he said. “My main sponsor (MUMA) has promised to assist me financially regarding surgery.
“That night (May 26) was a very painful one. I mean to lose my title in that fashion. I felt strong that I was winning the fight and surely ahead on points, and the next thing my shoulder dislocated during the fight in the ninth round.
“Without sounding controversial, I thought the referee (David van Niewenhuizen) will protect me. But rules are rules and my title was gone. I hope Boxing SA will grant me the opportunity to challenge Lunga.”
Zingange has been dropped to the No 2 spot below Khanyile Bulana in the May edition of Boxing SA’s ratings.
The injury has also prevented Zingange from making extra money as a personal trainer at Hard Knock Boxing Fitness in Boksburg. “I am unable to train may clients and make some money,” says the 29-year-old father of a three-month-old boy who was born the night Zingange won the title from Mpontshane in February.
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