LIMPOPO – South Africa’s best boxers competed for a spot in international competitions at the South African national boxing trials, which took place in East London recently.

Among the contenders was Itu “Ippo” Mayilule (19) from Makhushane Camp, who showcased his determination and skill by securing third place in his category.

“I am not impressed with my performance as I know that I am capable of doing better. Nevertheless, I am still proud of the performance I delivered during the trials,” he said. Although he did not win the national trials, Mayilule secured a third-place finish after a challenging match against an Eastern Cape opponent.

“I did not win the national trials, but I managed to get a third position after losing to an Eastern Cape boxer,” he stated.

Mayilule admitted that fear affected his performance in his last fight, preventing him from executing his usual boxing strategies. “I had to figure out how to get over my fear from my last fight. I was not able to perform as I normally do because of fear,” he reflected.

The 19-year-old boxer mentioned that he earned his spot in the national trials after competing in the Youth and Elite National Championships in KwaZulu-Natal in June 2024, where he also finished in third place.

He said that his boxing journey began on January 21, 2022, when a coach approached him on his way home and introduced him to the sport. Having solid experience in street fighting but no prior involvement in organised sports, Mayilule regarded boxing as an opportunity to develop his skills. He has since participated in 28 fights, winning 18 of them.

Despite not being fully satisfied with his performance at the national trials, he remains proud of his achievements. “I know I could have done better, but I am still proud of what I accomplished at the trials,” he said.

Currently, he trains at Foskor in Namakgale from Monday to Friday, determined to improve his skills for future competitions.