Boxing South Africa (BSA) pays tribute to the life and remarkable legacy of former two-division world champion Zolani “Last Born” Tete, whose untimely passing has left a profound void in South African boxing.
Tete was more than a world champion; he was a proud representative of South African boxing and an inspiration to generations of fighters who followed in his footsteps. His journey from the famed All Winners Boxing Club in Mdantsane to the pinnacle of the sport stands as a testament to his talent, determination and dedication to boxing.
He etched his name into boxing history as one of South Africa’s distinguished two-weight world champions, capturing the IBF Junior Bantamweight World Title in Japan in 2014 before going on to claim the WBO Bantamweight World Title.
Among the many memorable moments of his illustrious career was his historic 11-second victory over Siboniso Gonya in 2017, which remains one of the fastest finishes in a world title fight. The achievement further cemented his place in the history of the sport and highlighted the extraordinary ability of a fighter who consistently competed at the highest level.
Beyond his accomplishments inside the ring, Tete represented the spirit, resilience and pride of South African boxing. His success brought recognition to Mdantsane, the Eastern Cape and the broader South African boxing fraternity, while his journey served as an example of what can be achieved through dedication and perseverance.
Boxing South Africa extends its deepest condolences to the Tete family, his manager Mlandeli Tengimfene, the All Winners Boxing Club, Last Born Boxing Promotions, his friends, colleagues and supporters, as well as the entire boxing fraternity.
As we mourn his passing, we celebrate the champion he was, the inspiration he became and the legacy he leaves behind.
May the memory of Zolani “Last Born” Tete continue to live on through the fighters he inspired and the lasting mark he made on South African boxing.
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