Boxing South Africa (BSA) says it will remember the late former promoter Mzimasi Mnguni not only for producing great national and world champions, but for being a sophisticated negotiator.
The association says Mnguni was streetwise and did not allow adversity to deter him.
The chairperson of BSA Luthando Jack was speaking at Mnguni’s funeral service in East London. He says Mnguni always fought for the best deals for his boxers
“He was a master tactician and of course in negotiating his deals, a true boxing maverick. He went for knockouts, technical knockouts, straight wins, a draw was a compromise for him and of course, he never liked defeats,” says Jack.
Mnguni’s children also thanked their father for being their role model. However, the children spoke about the pain they felt when their father fell ill.
Mnguni’s oldest son, Mkhuseli spoke for the children, saying he was a great dad.
“As the eldest son, my siblings standing with me had requested me to relay their messages to utata. Young black males and females often do not have role models – I am fortunate and eternally grateful that I had you as a father, mentor and a role model. You gave me space to explore Ubuntu bam and reach for my dreams, I am my father’s son, rest in peace Jola.”
A friend and confidant of the late Mnguni, fellow boxing promoter Rodney Berman, says Mnguni had an eye for boxing talent. Mnguni produced 10 world champions as a promoter including Vuyani Bungu and Welcome Ncita. Berman says Mnguni was also an honest and steadfast businessman.
“To a dear friend, somebody who is irreplaceable, and someone who for 35 years, I never had to go and have a written contract between us – such was the man – that his word was his bond and our work together was our written contract. He will be sorely missed and he will be deservedly an icon and a legend in South African boxing.”
Mnguni is regarded as one of the most successful boxing promoters in the country.
He died last Saturday at the age of 73 in an East London hospital after a long illness
The funeral service of Mzimasi Mnguni:
