Former world champion Dingaan Thobela died suddenly. The sad news is confirmed by the South African government on X.
Thobela lived to be only 57 years old.
According to AP, the South African was found dead in his home in Johannesburg on Monday this week. The cause of death is not yet known.
Shocked: Johaug notice
South Africa’s Sports Minister Zizi Kodwa is in mourning.
– We mourn the loss of an athlete who did so much to elevate South African sport through his success in boxing. At the same time, we are also celebrating a champion boxer who inspired the nation, future boxers and champions from Soweto, Mdantsane, Thohoyandou and other parts of the country, says the sports minister in a statement.
During his boxing career, Thobela became world champion on three occasions. He won the WBO lightweight title in 1990, and the WBA lightweight title three years later.
In 2000, he moved up to super middleweight, where in the twelfth and final round he knocked out British Glenn Catley and secured the WBC title.
– His best moment, writes AP.
During his career, Thobela won 40 matches, lost 14 and two ended in a draw.
