The Golden Gloves Foundation is bringing another action-packed edition of Shaya Thursday to Emperors Palace, with an exciting programme of amateur and professional boxing showcasing established fighters alongside some of South Africa’s emerging talent.
Taking place on Thursday, 24 September 2026, the Heritage Day edition of Shaya Thursday continues the Foundation’s commitment to creating meaningful opportunities for boxers to compete, develop their craft and gain greater exposure.
Headlining the professional card is an exciting clash between Monica Makandola and Loveness Kokha, supported by six additional professional bouts.
The professional fight card features Andre Mulumba vs Eric Kazadzi, Calvin Taljaart vs Martin Madovha, Thobisiwe Sithole vs Adneta Mabeza, Vuyo Redebe vs Kefilwe Mogano, Steve Nortje vs Dr. Mpumelelo Mkhumbuzi, and Keegan Middleton vs Liyema Njibana.
One of the evening’s intriguing encounters will see Dr. Mpumelelo Mkhumbuzi step into the ring against Steve Nortje. Mkhumbuzi brings a compelling dimension to the Shaya Thursday platform as a medical doctor who also competes in boxing, demonstrating the discipline, commitment and determination required to pursue excellence both professionally and in sport.
The programme will also feature a strong undercard designed to give developing fighters valuable competitive experience. The undercard includes Thato Ntlemeza vs Philip Mupfeka, Motheo Kgoetiane vs Shane du Plooy, Sinclare Ness vs Jabulani Maluleke, Tsepo Mokena vs Cayleb Stellenburg, Theo-Maine Fourie vs Frans Ramela, and Sibusiso Mulapwe vs Nathan Kayembe.
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MORE THAN A FIGHT NIGHT
Shaya Thursday forms part of the Golden Gloves Foundation’s broader commitment to contributing to the development and future of South African boxing.
Through the platform, the Foundation seeks to create a pathway where emerging fighters can gain experience, build their profiles and share a stage with professional boxers, while bringing audiences closer to the personalities and stories behind the sport.
The Heritage Day edition also celebrates the diversity of South African boxing and the communities, trainers, gyms, families and supporters who continue to build the sport from grassroots level upwards.
Shaya Thursday – Heritage Day Edition takes place at Emperors Palace on Thursday, 24 September 2026. General admission tickets are R300, with VIP tickets at R600, available through Webtickets.
