Saturday evening’s Sandton Mayhem, hosted by Aquila Boxing Promotions at The Galleria in Sandton, delivered a spectacular night of world-class boxing that kept fans on their feet from the opening bell to the final knockout.
With a sold-out crowd in attendance, the event lived up to its promise – showcasing South African boxing at its finest through a blend of raw power, technical precision, and undeniable heart.
The evening was spearheaded by Kevin Lerena, founder and face of Aquila Boxing Promotions, whose
vision continues to elevate the sport locally by offering both established and rising fighters a world-
class platform to perform and inspire.
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.
The main event saw Kaine “K9” Fourie face Argentina’s Claudio Daneff for the IBO
Intercontinental Lightweight Title. Despite immense crowd support, Fourie was stopped 2
minutes and 1 second into the second round, as Daneff claimed victory with a decisive
knockout.
Every fighter who entered the ring embodied the grit, passion, and skill that define South African
boxing. The event not only showcased technical excellence but also reflected the depth of talent and
heart driving the local boxing scene forward.
Gratitude to Sponsors:
We’re beyond grateful to have powerhouse partners in our corner – the kind that don’t just support the
vision, they supercharge it. Massive thanks to the ABP sponsors: World Sports Betting, in association
with Supersport, The world of champions; Tigris Wealth; JCP Steel; Meat world; Knox Hydration; HP;
and Little Tuscany Boutique Hotel. Without your backing, this event wouldn’t be the premier, high-
calibre showcase it has become. You don’t just elevate the event – you define it.
Speaking after the event, Kevin Lerena shared: “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.”
For those unable to attend the sold-out spectacle, SuperSport – The World of Champions broadcast the
fights live, ensuring boxing fans across Africa could experience the excitement as it unfolded.
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, WATCH THIS SPACE.