Linda Ximba
It was one fight that boxing champion Innocent Mantengu could not win: a large group of thugs overwhelmed him and robbed him of his boxing belts.
The newly crowned WBA Pan African junior featherweight champion from Mtubatuba, near Richards Bay, KZN told Scrolla.Africa he had just stepped out of a meter cab at Johannesburg’s Park Station on Friday night when the thugs took him by surprise in a swift attack.
“They pulled out knives and threatened to kill me if I attempted to run away. They cornered me and overpowered me. I tried to resist but they grabbed my bag with my two belts. They took a necklace but failed to take my wallet and cellphone,” said Mantengu, who was visibly upset.
The thugs took his WBA Pan African and IBF Intercontinental belts. The ‘Tycoon’ was on his way home and had planned a ritual ceremony to celebrate winning the belts.
“I had planned to show my parents and ancestors the results of hard work. I strongly believe in amadlozi and I think it was proper to have a ceremony as a sign of appreciation,” said the champion.
There is no greater treasure to fight for in the world of boxing than a championship belt. It is what every boxer dreams of and for it to be taken away in a flash is a great tragedy.
30-year-old Mantengu said he has since informed the promotions company, J4Joy Foods, who staged his fight against Luthando Mbungulwana last month.
“If anybody sees the belts they must please contact the police. I worked hard for those belts to be taken away from me so easily,” said Mantengu.
“I will make a reward for those who could help me locate my belts.”
