South African boxing reaches another milestone as Siyakholwa Kuse and Ricardo Malajika prepare for WBC world title bouts
Golden Gloves Boxing Promotions has announced a landmark moment for South African boxing, with two prominent boxers Siyakholwa Kuse and Ricardo Malajika set to compete for WBC world titles on the same tournament in Japan on 27 September 2026.
Golden Gloves CEO Rodney Berman described the opportunity as one of the biggest moments in the promotion’s history.
“This is an unbelievable opportunity, not only for Golden Gloves, but for South African boxing. We believe both fighters have what it takes to bring home WBC world titles.”
Fresh off capturing the WBC Strawweight crown earlier this year, Kuse enters Japan full of confidence. The champion thanked Golden Gloves and South African supporters for believing in him and vowed to successfully defend his title on foreign soil.
After years of dedication and consistent performances, Ricardo Malajika will finally challenge for his first professional world title.
Widely regarded as one of South Africa’s finest amateur exports, Malajika believes his moment has arrived and says he is ready to give everything in pursuit of the WBC Super Flyweight title.
Kuse and Malajika share a unique history, having represented South Africa together as amateurs in 2016. Nearly a decade later, they reunite on one of boxing’s biggest stages as professionals, both chasing world championship glory.
The Japan event continues an outstanding period for Golden Gloves Boxing Promotions as the organisation approaches its 50th anniversary in 2027.
With world title fights, continental championships and more major events on the horizon, the promotion continues to create opportunities for South African fighters to compete on the global stage.
South African boxing fans can catch all the action live on SuperSport as Kuse and Malajika look to make history in Japan on 27 September.
