Share

R500 000 goal for Baby Jake

Johannesburg - The organisers of the tournament to be held at Emperors Palace on January 27 hope to raise R500 000 for Baby Jake Matlala.

Details of the "Big Little Men" bill were announced in Johannesburg on Monday.

Golden Gloves promoter Rodney Berman said an IBO junior flyweight title fight between Hekkie Budler and Gideon Buthelezi would top the black-tie box-and-dine extravaganza.

It has been reported that former multiple world champion Matlata has been left nearly destitute as a result of hospital bills after suffering from double pneumonia.

"Initially it was intended to feature up-and-coming heavyweight Flo Simba on the programme," said Berman.

"But it was then decided it would be more appropriate to highlight a fight in the weight division in which Baby Jake excelled.

"And it would defeat the purpose of the occasion if we paid out a huge slice of the proceedings on purse money for a string of high-profiled fighters.

"Baby Jake was Budler's hero and Hekkie wants to help his role model," added Berman.

"There has been a great deal of discussion as to whether Budler or Buthelezi, who are IBO champions in different divisions, is the more accomplished boxer.

"This will be an appropriate and opportune time to settle the arguments."

Berman said numerous entertainers had come forward to help the former champion.

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Voting Booth
Should Siya Kolisi keep the captaincy as the Springboks build towards their World Cup title defence in 2027?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
Yes! Siya will only be 36 at the next World Cup. He can make it!
25% - 1137 votes
No! I think the smart thing to do is start again with a younger skipper ...
29% - 1313 votes
I'd keep Siya captain for now, but look to have someone else for 2027.
45% - 2011 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE