Tutsheni forgoes holidays to prepare for March IBO World title bout
Simamkele Tustheni is in line to bring another world championships to the country when she fights for IBO World Title in March.
Image: supplied
Many of us are still shaking off the holiday fog, returning to office desks with stories of beach days, family gatherings, and festive indulgences.
While most people were busy popping champagne and soaking up everything that usually comes with the festive season, that was not the case for the current IBO All Africa champion, Simamkele Tutsheni, not because she didn't want to, but simply because of the demanding nature of the profession she has chosen.
While many were in full festive mode, Tutsheni remained in her natural element, grinding it out at the gym. And rightfully so. In just two months, she faces what is arguably the biggest challenge of her boxing career, a fight that could define her standing on the international stage and shape not only her future in boxing but her life beyond the ring as well.
The Langa-based pugilist spent her festive season preparing for a challenge for the IBO World title against Poland’s undefeated Laura Grzyb. Tutsheni admits there was little time for celebration during the holidays, as most of her days were spent inside the gym, focused on the task ahead. March 28 is the date when the two unbeaten fighters will collide in what promises to be a career-defining encounter.
At just 24 years old, Tutsheni carries an impressive professional record of 8-0 with three stoppages and she will be looking to add yet another belt to her growing collection, this time a world title. Her opponent is equally formidable, boasting an 11-0 record, also with three stoppages, making this a true test for both fighters.
Tutsheni’s last outing against Caleigh Swart, where she claimed the IBO All Africa title, is widely regarded as one of the best fights staged on local soil, certainly the best in the women's division. Should she manage to match or surpass that performance, the streets of Langa may need to prepare for an even bigger homecoming celebration.
This bout will also mark her first appearance since joining Matt Leisching’s ML Boxing stable, a move that has already raised expectations around her career. Recently crowned Prospect of the Year by the Sowetan newspaper, Tutsheni has momentum firmly on her side.
A victory in March would not only validate the sacrifices made during the festive season but further cement her status as one of South Africa’s brightest boxing talents.