Former International Boxing Federation (IBF) and International Boxing Organisation (IBO) champion Isaac "The Angel" Hlatswayo will stage his first professional boxing tournament as a promoter at the Malamulele Boxing Gym on Saturday.
Speaking to Limpopo Mirror on Sunday, Hlatswayo said he had realised that Limpopo had a wealth of boxing talent but very few promoters, particularly in Vhembe.
"As someone from the Vhembe District and a former world champion, I have to help up-and-coming boxers get as many professional fights as possible to improve and show the judges they are ready for international tournaments," he said.
He added that during his time, the top boxers from Vhembe had to move to Gauteng to find opportunities.
"Boxers like myself, Cassius Baloyi and Phillip Ndou left this province to improve our rankings, and we all ended up winning world titles. Now, The Angel's Boxing Promotions will ensure that local boxers get the chance to compete in international fights right here in Vhembe," he said.
Sixteen boxers will take part in the upcoming Rising of Stars tournament, 12 of them from Vhembe.
Asked if he would include female boxers in future tournaments, Hlatswayo said they would work with both men and women. "In fact, there is a lot of female talent in Vhembe, and we are definitely going to give them a platform to showcase their skills on the international stage," he said.