Tribute to ‘Easter Monday’ Mthembu
Boxing South Africa is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of legendary boxer, Moses Mthembu who passed away on Saturday, 11 October 2025 after a long illness.
Affectionately known as ‘Easter Monday’, Moses Mthembu passed away at the age of 88, shot to fame in the 1960s with his professional debut victory on A Easter Monday, placing his province, KwaZulu/Natal on the map as one of the provinces to be reckoned with in the fistic sport. Mthembu would go on to notch a total of 65 bouts, with 37 wins in the Superlight division between 1967 to 1982.
‘Easter Monday’ fought in an era of amazing fighters, when there was no ‘ducking and diving’ and his record is indicative of the calibre of boxers in the 60s, and 70s. Boxers in that era were normally better than boxing records would suggest. He was three times KZN Lightweight champion, and two times, Junior Welterweight champion in the same province with his loses mainly to South African champions and boxers who would later become world title challengers like Anthony Morodi, Andries Steyn and the ill-fated Brian Baronet.
He also fought some of the best including legendary, Eastern Cape born, Nkosana ‘Happy Boy’ Mgxaji, and Maxwell ‘Black Hero’ Malinga who would later become South African Welterweight champion. He would later close his ledger on 28th February 1982 losing on points to inexperienced Enoch Gumbi. A fan favourite, Mthembu was revered around the country not only in KwaZulu/Natal where he made a name for himself. He will be remembered by many as an honest and hard-working boxer, who was both entertaining and dangerous at times.
Boxing South Africa would like to thank Moses Mthembu for his contributions in the development of sport and inspiring the current and next generation of boxers. We send a heartfelt message of condolences to the Mthembu Family in its totality, Friends and all those affected by the passing. We are deeply sorry for your loss and stand with you during this difficult time.
Phumla ngoxolo Champ! mThembu, Mvelase, Qhudeni, wena wawela umlambo iThukela umacocombela okothwasa konyaka, olwakho ugqatso uluvezile!
Issued by,
Boxing South Africa
