Dee-Jay Kriel is a champion
Dee-Jay Kriel packed a punch at the Amabhungu Aksasa boxing tournament held at Emperors Palace.
Marlands is home to a WBC International boxing champion, Dee-Jay Kriel (22).
Kriel claimed the title at the Amabhungu Aksasa boxing tournament held at Emperors Palace, last Saturday.
He won his bout against Dexter Alimento from the Phillipines, by an unanimous decision when two judges scored the bout 116-112 and one scored it 117-111.
“I went up against Alimento, in the minimum weight division,” said Kriel. “It was a tough fight in the beginning, but I stuck to my game plan and it worked as I gained momentum.
“Overall, it was a very good fight and I am glad to have won it.
“I didn’t know what to expect as this was my first international fight, but the win certainly makes me feel as if I can stand and fight with the big boys.”
The youngster said he started boxing at a tender age.
“I can say boxing is in my blood because there is a strong boxing background in my family,” said Kriel. “Among other family members, my uncle Leo Gloss, and grandfather Tommy, were involved in boxing back in the day.
“I later started fighting with my uncle and fell in love with the sport even more.
“I took my love for the sport further and started amateur fighting with an amazing coach namely, David Mazinyane.”
Kriel only fought three fights and lost all three as an amateur.
“It appeared amateur wasn’t for me but the tables turned when I turned professional in 2014,” said Kriel.
“My professional fight history is 14 fights, 12 wins, one loss and one draw, which includes this recent win.
“I am a former WBC Youth World Champion in the light flyweight division, which I obtained last year, but that title is now vacant because of my new title.”
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Kriel shared advice with upcoming boxers.
“You have to follow your dream and work hard if you want to be a champion,” said Kriel.
“This sport is all about dedication – among other things.
“Talent can only take you so far but if this is coupled with hard work, it will take you all the way.
The local champion has two boxers he looks up to.
“I am a counter puncher like my favourite American boxer, Floyd Mayweather and my favourite South African boxer is Rupert van Aswegen,” said Kriel.
Kriel’s new title has put him on the map. “In the minimum weight division, I am rated top 15 in the world and number one in South Africa,” said Kriel.
“This is only the first big step; going forward, I plan on collecting more titles and becoming the world champion.”
The young boxer also took time to appreciate his support pillars.
“Thank you to my great trainers, Colin Nathan and Vusi Mtolo (assistant trainer), as well as all my sponsors, namely Eric Nienaber, RDG, Anima Mundi, C&E Engineering, Eastern Hydraulics and Global Elite Executive Protection,” said Kriel.
“Another heartfelt thank you goes to my family, friends and fans because your support goes a long way.”
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