The Reckoning: Boxing is Back in SA, Led by Kevin Lerena
Boxing is back in South Africa, revving to take back its spot as one of the top sports in our country. The ring is ready for a historic night of boxing, accumulating at The Reckoning. This event – in collaboration with Legacy Boxing Promotions and set to take place at the SunBet Arena in Pretoria on 1 May 2025 – promises to be filled with adrenalin and ambition.
Gideon Mann, COO of Sunbet, says: “This is more than just a bout. It’s a revival of a proud tradition, a moment of national pride and a heartfelt nod to where our passion began. From Baby Jake and Brian Mitchell to that iconic image of Mandela, gloves raised, embodying the fighting spirit of a nation.”
The main event features Kevin Lerena defending his World Bridgerweight Champion title against Ukrainian contender, Serhiy Radchenko. This marks the first time a world title will be defended on South African soil. The Bridgerweight division, created by the World Boxing Council, allows a space for the grey area between cruiserweight and heavyweight, with a 100kg limit.
Local boxing fans will crowd the stadium to be part of this historical South African event. Spectators will also see Tulz Mbenge take the ring for the co-main event. Additionally, undercard boxers like Thabiso Mchunu, Chris Thompson, Linda Khuzwayo, Tietsetso Matikinca will set the scene. Day Card sparring includes Jabulani Makhence and Gary van Staden, with van Staden debuting with his first professional fight.
Boxing is Back, SA!
Speaking to Headlining Fighter, Kevin Lerena
South African boxing sensation, Kevin Lerena, returns home to defend his WBC World Bridgerweight Champion title against Ukrainian opponent, Serhiy Radchenko. Defending his championship on South African soil is history in the making.
Lerena has been fighting professionally since the age of 18. “I didn’t choose boxing, boxing chose me,” he says. “I always believed in myself. I probably believed I was better than I actually was, and I was stronger than I actually was, but it worked out for me. It was a good soundboard to deal with bullying and deal with a lot of the emotional stuff I was dealing with as a kid as well.”
Speaking about his current position in boxing, he says: “It’s an incredible feeling to defend the WBC World Title on home soil. Being the first to do so in South African history makes it even more special and becoming only the third-ever WBC champion is a huge honour. To be able to do it in front of my home fans and my loyal Lerena Army is truly special. It’s an honour to make history with them.”
Bringing his love back to South Africa, to the place that made him into the fighter he is today, is everything and more. He says: “South African fans are supportive, but they just need an event, and that’s what we are giving them. Those people that want to be there will be there and that’s what matters most to us.”
Lerena’s family is his backbone. “They’re my biggest supporters and they’re the reason I do this. I have four beautiful children and a beautiful wife and they see the sacrifice. So, when it is all said and done and I hang up the gloves, are they going to be proud of me? That’s all that matters. The rest is benign. The limelight, the belts, the money… when that’s all gone, you’re going to have your family and your kids.”
Speaking to Debuting Professional Fighter, Gary Van Staden
We also spoke to Gary Van Staden about his thoughts, emotions and apprehensions going into his first professional fight. His answer to why this was something he wanted to achieve, is: “I want to test myself at the highest level and see how far I can go. I love the discipline, the mental toughness and the grind of the sport.”
His love for boxing extends to the exterior world too, because “more than that, [he] wants to put South African boxing back on the map.” He adds: “There is so much talent in this country, but fighters need more opportunities, better promotions and bigger platforms to showcase their skill. The Reckoning is a huge event and I think it’s going to remind people how exciting boxing is. If we can keep putting on shows like this, more people will start paying attention and the sport will grow.”
To anyone who is thinking about starting boxing – as a hobby or career – Van Staden says: “Be prepared to work harder than you ever have in your life. Boxing isn’t just about throwing punches. It is about discipline, mental toughness and pushing through when things get tough. Surround yourself with the right people – coaches, training partners and mentors who will push you to be better. And, most importantly, stay patient. Success in boxing doesn’t happen overnight, but if you stay committed, it will come.”
Speaking To The Man Behind The Scenes, Coach Peter Smith
Van Staden’s and Lerena’s coach, Peter Smith also shared his thoughts around what it takes to be a boxer. As a coach at Smiths Boxing, he has the privilege to watch boys transform into men. “That’s the beautiful thing about the sport – to watch how these fighters transform. They don’t see what the coach is seeing from the outside. I see their growth when they don’t. What people see on the stage is different from what happens behind the curtains. What these guys are like, what they go through, getting around injuries and so on.”
Smith remembers when he first started training Lerena. “I always told Kevin not to listen to anything anyone says. Run your race, stay on track, as there will always be negative people that don’t like you. Just keep winning and they will eventually become your biggest fans and know your name.”
As for the future of boxing in South Africa, it is anyone’s guess. However, Lerena, Van Staden and Smith are hopeful that this is just the beginning of something bigger and better. The Reckoning is a show that you don’t want to miss. Be part of history and get tickets here.
