Walkerville’s boxing champ outboxes opponent, claims title

Walkerville’s Donjuan ‘The Iron Dragon’ van Heerden claimed the Gauteng title in his recent bout when he outfought Nelson Mbhele on April 21 in Auckland Park.

With much preparation ahead of the fight, Van Heerden triumphed in the first round of his bout, taking out Mbhele with a knockout (KO). The official time was one minute and nine seconds into the first round.

The proud boxer said it was a good match-up, though his opponent didn’t give him much of a challenge.

“It was a one-way street. He didn’t give me a tough time. I hope the photographers were on their job when the fight started. The fight was so quick I don’t think they had a chance to take pictures. I came in super-fit and strong because I had a six-week hard training camp,” he explained.

He said there were times when he did three sessions a day to prepare for the fight.

“My mind is in the right space. I’ll keep on climbing that ladder and getting more wins soon. My dedication and consistency are there, and that’s key. I’m waiting for my manager Colleen, who is working on my career, to guide me in the next direction,” Van Heerden said.

He reiterated that his manager does a phenomenal job.

“She is the best manager any boxer could ask for. When it comes to her fighters, she always goes out of her way for us. My career is in her hands, and all I can tell you now is that we are in talks for another fight date,” he said.

His manager Colleen McAusland commended him for his win, saying, “Donjuan was super-fit for this fight.

“I would’ve liked it if he went for more rounds because of all his training, but it’s difficult for a boxer when they see an opportunity for a KO. We’ll keep him busy this year and are in talks with a promoter for his next fight. We’re building him steadily, and he’s definitely world-class,” she said.

She said Van Heerden had good ratings in Africa, and she has big plans for him moving forward.