Tembisa boxing referee is living his dream

Simon Mokadi became a boxing referee when he was inducted into the World Boxing Council and Boxing South Africa in 2008, and he continues to officiate at tough bouts.

The first world boxing fight at which Inxiweni-based Mokadi officiated was between Malcolm Klassen and Cassius Baloyi at Nasrec Indoor Arena in October 2012.

Mokadi (47) told The Tembisan that his love for boxing started at the age of 12.

“I used to train in boxing in order to be able to defend myself. My father was also passionate about the sport. He was actually my role model and he encouraged me to pursue boxing as a career against all odds. We would watch boxing matches together. And I enjoyed those days when he didn’t mind spending most of his time with me, talking about boxing,” said Mokadi.

Mokadi said he later took up kung fu and trained at Tembisa High School, but that didn’t last long.

He was also inspired by Archie Nyingwa, Gauteng provincial manager of Boxing South Africa, who always encouraged him to be the best referee ever in the boxing ring and to put the country on the map.

“I’ve got so much love for boxing and I will do anything to take part in the sport. We are currently preparing to revive the spirit of boxing in the township. I am hoping that young people who would love to become professional boxers will be part of the sport,” explained Mokadi.

Mokadi said he has learnt a lot about boxing. He has realised that in the boxing ring, anything can happen at any time. As a referee, you need to know how to control the fighters and keep an eye on what’s going on in the corners between rounds, he explained.

He is encouraging young people to use their talent for a living and consider sports as a career.