South African boxing sensation, Smangele ‘Smash’ Hadebe, is set to make history as she challenges Mexico’s Gabriel ‘Bonita’ Sanchez for the WBC Silver Worldwide title on 4 April at the Olympic Stadium in Mexico City.
The highly anticipated bout comes after Sanchez withdrew from a scheduled fight in South Africa last year, forcing Smash to wait for her shot at the title. Now, the 3x ABU champion and reigning SA Flyweight champion is ready to seize the moment.
“I’ve been waiting and working hard for this fight. This is my chance to show the world that South Africa has talent. I’m ready to bring the title home and make history for women in boxing,” Smash told Walkerville and Savanna City Times.
This marks her first fight of the year, as she typically competes a maximum of three times annually. Her journey to this opportunity was made possible by sponsors RGM Cranes, Ashlei, African Brand Architects, Midvaal Municipality and Discover Sport.
Smash’s manager, Colleen McAusland, is confident in her fighter’s abilities, said: “Smash is the most disciplined, dedicated and hardworking female boxer in the country. Last year, she won the Boxer of the Year Award and I have no doubt that we will bring the title home from Mexico.”
Fans won’t miss a moment of the action, as the fight will be broadcast live on Televisa Channel 5.
Photo credit: Nick Lourens
