Phumelela Cafu joins a list of great SA boxers in holding credible world titles

Cafu became a world champion after beating Japanese boxer Kosei Tanaka by a split decision at the Ariake Arena in Tokyo, Japan, yesterday.

Cafu dropped Tanaka in the fifth round and this counted hugely in his favour as two judges gave him the fight.

He reflects on his victory in front of a hostile crowd.

"I'm really excited that I won, coming to Japan I knew it wouldn't be easy taking the title away from the champion but I knew I had what it takes, so I'm glad I finally became the world champion," Cafu said.

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Cafu, who hails from Duncan Village in East London now joins the exclusive group of boxers from that part of the land, who gained supremacy at this level as world champions. He’s also happy to be counted amongst the greats like Welcome Ncita, Vuyani Bungu, Mbulelo Botile, mostly recently Zolani Tete, Sive Nontshinga and more.

"Now my name is also mentioned around the likes of Vuyani Bungu, Hawk Makephula, Sive Nontshinga, people who were world champions in South Africa. So, that feeling makes me really happy because becoming a world champ was my lifelong dream," he added.

Cafu, who fought a courageous battle, improved his record to 11 wins, eight via knockouts, and three draws in his first-ever bout outside South Africa. He arrived at Colin Nathan’s Hotbox Gym at the beginning of June and is full of praise for his camp and what they have managed to do for him.

"And I would like to thank my team who made all of this possible, for their support, I wanna thank every single person in my team because this title is not only mine but it's for me and my team. I would also like to thank my fans and people who believed in me throughout this journey, I'm really thankful for them."

The 26-year-old, whose skills were honed by one of the well-respected East London boxing trainers Mzamo Mapetla, also reserved special mention for his former manager and promoter Ayanda Matiti, saying he’s played a big role in his career.