Local boxer Jeff "911" Magagane from Ha-Masia Kurhuleni fought to a draw with Namibian opponent Romas Shifiomo in a featherweight challenge staged at the Portuguese Hall in Turffontein, Gauteng, on Sunday, 17 August.
The six-round bout ended in a points draw. The tournament was organised by Glove & Glory Boxing Promoting. Magagane, who has had 25 professional fights, has won 16, drawn seven, and lost two since the start of his career.
From the start, Shifiomo appeared hesitant, allowing Magagane to dominate the ring. In the third round, Magagane landed vicious combinations that dropped Shifiomo three times before the referee intervened. Shifiomo recovered and came back strongly, dominating four of the six rounds, though Magagane continued to land memorable punches, leaving a cut above Shifiomo's left eye.
After the fight, Magagane thanked his trainer for his guidance. "I'm happy with the draw, but my main goal is to progress further in professional boxing. This sport keeps young people focused and away from bad habits like drugs and alcohol, because so much time is spent training," he said.
Magagane added that he would not give up boxing, a sport he enjoys most. "It also promotes friendship. Even after a fight, we bear no grudges, whether we win or lose."