The Department of Sport and the Boxing fraternity have expressed deep sorrow following the passing of former world champion, Dingaan Thobela.
Thobela, who was affectionately known as The Rose of Soweto, passed away on Tuesday at his Mayfair, Johannesburg.
In his professional career which spanned from 1986 until 2006, Thobela was a multiple world boxing champion, having won the World Boxing Organization (WBO) and World Boxing Association (WBA) lightweight, and World Boxing Council (WBC) super-middleweight titles.
The Rose of Soweto was also a recipient of the Andrew Mlangeni Green Jacket Award.
“Dingaan ‘The Rose of Soweto’ Thobela was a champion fighter who captured the hearts and soul of the nation.
The Rose of Soweto progressed from a prolific amateur boxer to become a three-time world champion as a professional,” said Minister Zizi Kodwa.
Kodwa said despite all the obstacles and challenges during apartheid, Thobela emerged victorious in a golden period of South African Boxing.
“Thobela fought in some of the most memorable bouts, such as the fights against Tony Lopez for the WBA lightweight title and against Glenn Catley to win the WBC super-middleweight title.
Through his success and popularity, Thobela was one of the world’s standout fighters in a golden period of South African boxing,” explained Kodwa.
The Minister said Thobela was an athlete who did so much to elevate South African sport through his success in boxing, inspired the nation, future boxers, and champions from Soweto, Mdantsane, Thohoyandou, and other parts of the country.
Thobela’s fans also took to social media to send their condolences.
“When the “Rose of Soweto” Dingaan Thobela was in full bloom and brought honour to the country by winning the WBA crown.
So gutted he passed on yesterday following an undisclosed illness.
May his family and friends be comforted and may his soul rest in eternal,” commented veteran sport journalist, Thomas Kwenaite.
Fellow boxer Kevin Lerena also paid tribute to Thobela.
“Rest in peace to South African boxing legend Dingaan Thobela.
Your talent and determination in the ring will never be forgotten.
You always supported me and believed in my abilities, pushing me to reach my fullest potential.
Thank you for your inspiration and motivation, Champ,” wrote @Kevlerenaboxing on his X social media platform.
“Orlando Pirates is saddened by the passing of South African boxing legend, Dingaan ‘Rose of Soweto’ Thobela.
On behalf of the extended Orlando Pirates family, we convey our heartfelt and deepest sympathy to the Thobela family.
Rest In Peace, Champ,” commented @orlandopirates
