Dean Promnick finds a target with his right hand in his fight against Kudakachwe Banda.
Image: Buntu Gotywa
Cape Town’s action-packed long weekend had something for everyone, from music lovers soaking up the vibes at the Cape Town International Jazz Festival, to rugby fans cheering on the Stormers against Benetton in the URC.
For fight fans, the highlight came from the shores of Cabo Beach, where Fight Island 2.0 once again delivered a spectacular night of boxing.
Hosted by Savva Savvas’ Insane Boxing, the event brought together a vibrant crowd and an impressive card of talent, culminating in a masterclass performance by Dean Promnick in the main event.
Promnick, stepping into the ring against Malawi’s Kudakwache Banda, put on a calculated and commanding performance over eight rounds.
Despite the late hour, well into the middle of the night, the anticipation for the headliner had kept the venue buzzing with energy.
And Promnick did not disappoint. From the opening bell, he showed discipline, accuracy and relentless body work that slowly wore down his opponent. It was a clinical display of ring ownership, as he dictated the pace and direction of the fight.
By the end of the eighth round, it was clear who the victor was. Promnick’s unanimous decision win not only capped off the evening but also pushed his professional record to an unblemished 5-0.
Kaya Mlata got the nod from the judges after his fight against Sabelo Ngebinyane.
Image: Buntu Gotywa
The co-main event was another undefeated showcase, this time featuring Khaya Mlata, who faced one of his toughest challenges to date in former world title challenger, Sabelo Ngebinyana.
The fight was a true test of discipline and composure for Mlata. Facing a seasoned opponent, he remained calm under pressure and followed his game plan with surgical precision.
His ability to stay composed and land meaningful shots throughout earned him the judges’ favor and extended his record to a perfect 7-0.
With his sights now set on a South African title shot, Mlata has made his intention clear; 2025 is the year he wants to stay active and make serious moves in the national rankings.
Caleigh Swart and Nolwazi Mabaso lit the ring up in their contest.
Image: Buntu Gotywa
Earlier in the evening, fans were treated to fireworks from the women’s bouts that lit up the card. Caleigh Swart and Nolwazi Mabaso stole the show with a six-round slugfest that earned “Fight of the Night” honours.
In a true back-and-forth affair, both fighters had their moments, but it was Swart’s grit that ultimately swayed the judges. The win saw her record improve to 5-0 and further solidified her as one of the country’s rising stars in women’s boxing.
In another standout performance, Saarah Kariem made her professional debut against the durable Seani Morite.
Despite the nerves that come with a debut, Kariem showcased her potential with an aggressive, action-packed display.
She did everything in her power to stop Morite, but the tough opponent held firm. In the end, it was the judges who decided the outcome, awarding Kariem a hard-earned victory in what was a promising start to her professional journey.
K1 legend Wade Hammond showed his heavy hands in a boxing ring this time around and got the job done against Sifiso Chili.
Image: Buntu Gotywa
Beaven Sibanda and Nhlanhla Nyirha delivered a grueling eight-round battle in the minimumweight division. The two warriors went toe-to-toe in what many considered the most evenly matched bout of the evening. After a physically taxing contest, it was Sibanda who emerged victorious via a razor-thin split decision.
From start to finish, Fight Island 2.0 proved once again why it’s quickly becoming a staple in the South African boxing scene.
Ariel Mezeraci raises his fist after dropping Khumbulani Duma.
Image: Buntu Gotywa