The Eastern Cape government will honour late boxing champion Zolani “Last Born” Tete with a special provincial official funeral this weekend.
Tete, who became a two-time world champion during his illustrious career, will be buried in his home township of Mdantsane on Saturday following approval from President Cyril Ramaphosa for the provincial government to accord him the special honour.
The 38-year-old boxer was murdered in Mdantsane last week, cutting short the career of one of South Africa’s most successful fighters. Three suspects have been arrested in connection with his death, while police continue investigating the circumstances surrounding the killing.
Zolani Tete’s World Boxing Legacy
Tete, who was born in the Eastern Cape, won world titles in two weight divisions during his professional boxing career.
He also secured a place in boxing history in 2017 when he stopped fellow South African Siboniso Gonya in just 11 seconds. The knockout remains the fastest recorded finish in a world title fight.
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His achievements inside the ring made him a prominent figure in South African boxing and a source of pride for his home province.
Eastern Cape Government Pays Tribute To Tete
Provincial government spokesperson Khuselwa Rantjie said the decision to grant Tete the funeral honour recognised his contribution to sport and his achievements in professional boxing.
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“The decision to accord Tete this honour comes as recognition for his exceptional contribution to sport, his outstanding achievements in professional boxing, and the immense pride he brought to the people of the Eastern Cape and South Africa throughout his career,” Rantjie said.
Tete’s funeral will take place in Mdantsane on Saturday, where family, friends, members of the boxing fraternity and the wider community are expected to pay their final respects to the former world champion.
