By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
South African boxer Kaine “K9” Fourie lost his fight to Claudio Daneff of Argentina for the vacant IBO Inter-Continental on Saturday’s Aquila Boxing Promotions (ABP) Sandton Mayhem bill.
Despite immense crowd support, Fourie was stopped 2 minutes and 1 second into the second round, as Daneff claimed victory with a decisive knockout.
Earlier this year, Fourie suffered a first round stoppage loss to Zambian boxer Simon Ngoma at the same Sandton venue. He, however, bounced back with two successive wins over Oumpie Sibeko and Sifiso Hlongwane in August and June respectively.
The event not only showcased technical excellence but also reflected the depth of talent and heart driving the local boxing scene forward.
Fight Highlights:
- Tshegofatso Matlala suffered a tough loss in his bout against Mxolisi Lahliwe but displayed unwavering grit and the heart of a true warrior.
- Liam Fox and Ntokozo Msibi went toe-to-toe in one of the night’s most talked-about encounters – a thrilling contest that ended in a majority draw, with both men showcasing exceptional skill and endurance.
- Luke Hendrikz and Sabelo Ndwandwe delivered the fight of the night, leaving everything in the ring. Their relentless energy and technical brilliance earned them an additional R10 000.00 each, recognising their outstanding performance and sportsmanship.
- Simnikiwe Bongco ignited the evening with a knockout victory over Siphelele Sindane just 1 minute and 4 seconds into the first round, setting an explosive tone that had the crowd roaring.
- Gary van Staden went the distance in a fiercely contested bout against the DRC’s Ali Patsho Sambi, demonstrating tactical discipline, composure, and power to secure a hard-fought victory.
- Leo Careri continued his rise as one of South Africa’s brightest prospects, knocking out Jackson Kaptein 1 minute and 21 seconds into the fourth round to a thunderous ovation.
- Tiitestso Matikinca reaffirmed his reputation as one to watch, stopping Michael Davies just 57 seconds into the second round with a clean, clinical knockout.
- In a defining moment of the night, Lindokuhle Khuzwayo captured the IBO All Africa Featherweight Title with a second-round knockout over Rilwan Lawal, solidifying his position as a top South African talent on the rise.
Speaking after the event, founder and face of Aquila Boxing Promotions Kevin Lerena said, “Sandton Mayhem was everything we envisioned – competitive, passionate, and a powerful reminder that South African boxing belongs on the global stage. Every fighter left their mark tonight.”
“Once again, Sandton Mayhem proved that Aquila Boxing Promotions is redefining the local boxing landscape through elite event production, athlete development, and unforgettable matchups that position South African boxing firmly on the international stage. Cannot wait to see how they top this in 2026.”