Studio building champs from the bottom up

South Africa has produced a number of world-class fighters, however, in recent years, boxing’s prominence has been in the decline.

New efforts are now being made to revitalise the sport, particularly through development structures and grassroots initiatives.

SouthPaw Boxing Studio, located in Westlake, hosted over 10 amateur boxing events at the weekend, with the aim of providing a platform for aspiring boxers to showcase their skills and also offer an opportunity for anyone, regardless of their career aspirations, to experience the thrill of stepping into the ring.

Tyron Lloyd, the owner of SouthPaw Boxing Studio, emphasises the importance of inclusivity and community engagement in growing the sport.

He noted the enthusiastic response from gyms across Cape Town, with former world champion Mzuvukile “Old Bones” Magwaca even supporting some of his students at the event.

“We're trying to get as many people participating and do our bit to help grow the sport of boxing. We have pros, amateurs, and people just doing it for fun,” says Lloyd.

“We're getting better turnouts with each event, and we're looking to involve township teams, from the young to the old boys, and collaborate with all the gyms in Cape Town.”

Lloyd acknowledges the challenges faced by Boxing South Africa (BSA) but believes that grassroots events like theirs are essential in supporting the sport's resurgence.

“More people watching boxing means better support for BSA and SANABO (South African National Boxing Organisation).”

The Western Cape enjoyed a successful year in boxing in the professional arena, with eight sanctioned events hosted in the province.

This success at the professional level is preceded by a thriving amateur scene, with ample action in the ring contributing to the growth and development of boxing talent.

Looking ahead, there is optimism that with continued support for grassroots initiatives, increased participation, and collaboration among gyms, boxing in the country may reclaim its former glory days.

For that to happen more focus is needed to nurture talent from a young age, providing opportunities for all levels of involvement.

Former IBF Inter-continental and WBF belt holder, Magwaca says: “It's important for the youngsters looking to see if they want to be in the sport of boxing.

“Any boxer looking to be a boxer needs to start at the bottom and work their way up.”

Magwaca underscores the importance of hard work and dedication, cautioning against the misconception that success comes overnight.

“So, any boxer who wants to be a champion, stay in the gym, put in the hard work.”

He echoes the sentiment shared by professional American boxer, Andre Ward.

“Andre Ward once said, ‘If your coach is still chasing you for work, then boxing is not for you’.”

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