Norman “Pangaman” Sekgapane (70), who had been ill for some time  passed away yesterday afternoon(4 April) at Chris Hani Baragwanath hospital.

In a statement his son, Thabo, said that plans for a memorial service would be announced soon.

“He was a great boxer who made a name for himself during the 1970’s and 1980’s, particularly. He was a humble man, who was soft-spoken. He was renowned for being quiet off the ring and did not seem bothered as everybody else was preparing for their bouts. He approached his craft with dignity and made his statements with his fists,” said Thabo.

Indeed the “Pangaman” as he was known, was a true South African and Northwest province boxing legend. Born in Koster, he later moved to Soweto where as a youngster he was robbed after which he took up boxing to defend himself. After retiring from professional boxing Sekgapane played a pivotal role in setting up amateur boxing structures in his home province.

He was probably one of the hardest working professionals of his era. The early 70s were without a doubt Sekgapane’s best years, yet 1973 would standout as he fought an unprecedented 11 times during that year.  Fighting almost every month is unheard of among today’s professionals.

During this bumper year, he only lost twice but managed to beat highly rated African boxers in Ghanian, Joe Tetteh and Nigerian, Johnathan Dele. He even managed to knock out the heavier and much more fancied European, Joergen Hansen. Later in his career, a past his prime Sekgapane went the distance with South African boxing legend Harold Volbrecht although Sekgapane lost on points.

Pundits will remember ‘Pangaman’ for his perpetual motion style. One commentator described Sekgapane’s nickname to be appropriate when looking at his style.

“He used his fists the way cane cutters used a panga to harvest sugar cane, methodically and meticulously chopping his opponents down,” said the commentator.

“On behalf of the department, we wish to convey our sincere condolences to the family and all the boxing. After his retirement from the professional boxing, he became one of our own employees at Mmabatho Stadium and he will be remembered as a very passionate, respectful and a quiet person who would never raise his voice. A true legend indeed and he will be solemnly missed’’, said Provincial MEC for Education and Sports Development Sello Lehari.