Magagane makes first defence of SA title

Jeff Magagane from Johannesburg makes the first defence of his South African featherweight title when he meets Zolisa Batyi of East London at the Ngoako Ramatlhodi Sports Complex in Polokwane on Friday night.

The 32-year-old Magagane, who has been fighting as a pro since 2015, won the South African title on 25 September when he outpointed Asanda Gingqi over 12 rounds at the Portuguese Hall in Johannesburg.

Magagane, 16-5; 4, won his first championship in October 2016 when he beat Michael Mokoena in a clash for the vacant Gauteng lightweight title.

He then won four of his next seven fights before claiming the WBA Pan African featherweight title with a split decision win over Tello Lithebe (20-10).

The year 2022 has been a good year for him, winning against Bheli Mahlangu (dsq 3), Itumeleng Tsholo (pts 8) and Sithembiso Maduma (pts 10), before claiming the South Africa title.

Batyi, 6-2; 4, who made his pro debut in June 2018 with a four-round points win over Aphiwe Rasmeni (pts 4), is far less experienced than the champion.

After winning his next two fights he lost on points over eight rounds against Luthando Mbumbalwana (10-6).

He then won his next two bouts, against Sithembile Luzipho and Phila Gola, inside the distance, but on 28 May this year he lost on points over 12 rounds against Asanda Gingqi in a challenge for the South African featherweight title.

In his most recent fight on 23 October, he won on an eight-round split decision against Sange Nguza.

The more experienced champion is favoured to win on points over 12 rounds.

The tournament is presented by Phathutshedzo Dongola’s Champs Boxing Promotions.