Yoyo knocks out Chithani in sixth
by Ron Jackson 01 July 2012, 19:23
Mzolisi Yoyo knocked out Thembelani Chithani to retain his SA junior welterweight title in East London on Sunday afternoon.
Yoyo picked up the pace after a slow start and finished the fight at the Orient Theatre 2 minutes 54 seconds into the sixth round.
The 35-year-old Yoyo, who weighed 62.80 kg, had a small cut near his right eye and appeared rather sluggish at first.
He kept punching short until he dropped the challenger with a right to the side of the head midway through the second round.
Chithani (62.80 kg) was not hurt and got up immediately. Through rounds three to five the champion continued to hold the edge against his 24-year-old southpaw opponent, who is ranked at No 7 by Boxing SA but does not pack much of a punch.
At the start of the sixth round the champion was well ahead. He then stepped in and landed a short left to the body.
The blow sent Chithani to his knees and he was counted out by referee Andile Matika. However, Chithani did not appear to be in much distress and might have misjudged the count.
Yoyo improved his record to 18-4, including 14 knockouts. Chithani dropped to 9-4-2; 2. The judges were Siya Vabaza, Lulama Mtya and Allen Matakane.
The main supporting bout was a scrappy affair but in the end Xolisani Ndongeni (58.95 kg) became the new Eastern Cape junior lightweight champion.
He beat Ayanda Yaphi (57 kg) by unanimous decision over ten rounds – 97-91, 97-96 and 97-93.
Ndongeni is ranked at No 8 and Yaphi No 4 by Boxing SA. Ndongeni’s record improved to 7-0; 3 and Yaphi dropped to 16-4-1; 10.
Other results
Junior bantamweight: Athenkosi Neleni stopped Simthembile Sitali in the second round and Sithembiso Faye beat Banele Ntshoko on points over 4 rounds
Mini-flyweight: Siyabonga Siyo beat Luvuyo Watata, points 4
Bantamweight: Thabo Sishwana beat Zolo Charlie, points 6
Featherweight: Dumisani Tose beat Lucky Kwaza, points 6.
The tournament was presented by Mzi Mnguni of Eyethu Boxing Promotions.
