LIMPOPO – Boxing fans in Limpopo were devastated to learn of the death of South African bantamweight champion, Ronald ‘King’ Malindi from Tshakhuma who died at the Helen Joseph Hospital in Gauteng last Monday, after fighting for his life since early September when he was shot in Westbury township during a robbery.
The 29-year-old boxer was undefeated in 19 fights and successfully defended his national title four times.
His former trainer, Charity Mukondeleli said Malindi was always positive and told lots of jokes.
“This is a huge shock and came totally unexpected. We sometimes just feel it could not have happened to our boxer, but we know it was his day. His death is a great loss to the boxing fraternity. He will be sorely missed.”
Malindi’s mother, Polinah Malindi said the family was mourning his death, although they have accepted what has happened. “There are things that we as human beings cannot change. We all have to accept those things and go on with life.”
The manager of Limpopo Boxing Champions Promotion, Phathutshedzo Dongola, said the news of Malindi’s death sent shock waves throughout the sporting world.
“We are deeply saddened by his death. The family is understandably devastated by this loss. Our sincere condolences go out to the family and we wish them strength during this extremely difficult time. May his soul rest in peace,” he said.
Boxing SA said in a statement that it is with deep sadness that they mourn the loss of Malindi, “a true South African bantamweight champion with an unblemished record of 19 professional fights without a single loss.”
Malindi was buried in Brixton on Saturday.
