Wassim Chellan fights for SA welterweight title in honor of late mentor Brice

This coming Friday, Wassim Chellan will realise one of his lifelong dreams -  fighting for the South African welterweight title.

Chellan will take on Phaphama Ronorono at the Wynberg Military Sports Centre on Friday, September 19.

Chellan had been lined up for a shot at the SA title as far back as a year ago. Earlier this year, he faced Siphenathi Qampi and stopped him in two rounds in what was a tune-up bout. That win came after his only professional loss -  an unsuccessful trip to Germany where he challenged Adel El Gaarmaoui for both the IBO International and WBF world titles.

"It's been a long time coming, and now the opportunity presents itself," said Chellan.

"I can't really express what I'm feeling at the moment, but I do know this is a massive chance for me."

He added that this fight is for his late mentor Emil Brice, who passed away this year.

"This was my late mentor Emil Brice’s last wish - for me to capture the SA title. On Friday, I make that wish come true."

The event had originally been scheduled for the end of August but was delayed due to complications with funding between the Department of Sport and Jack Brice Promotions.

The issue involved R300,000 allocated for the Women in Boxing Series. That has since been resolved, and the event is now going ahead, much to the relief of promoter Jackie Brice.

Five female bouts are set to take place on the night, including a non-title fight featuring South African champion Ntombokuqala Tolashe, who faces Matshidiso Mokebisi. Also on the card are Sibulele Soboois against Zizo Skoti, Olwethu Mkhathala taking on Emma Mohono, Likho Nxele up against Noxolo Magagula, and Sonelo Mbombo facing Rethabile Tshepe.

Lunga Sitemela will also be in action, taking on Mvuzo Kotobe in a six-round fight as preparation for his upcoming WBF Super Featherweight title defence in Papua New Guinea in December.