The scheduled assumption of office by the newly-appointed Boxing South Africa (BSA) board has been blocked due to legal action initiated by a group of promoters.

In a letter issued on Monday, the state attorney conveyed that the new board would not undertake its duties on Tuesday pending the resolution of the matter raised by the National Professional Boxing Promoters’ Association (NPBPA). The NPBPA, led by Ayanda Matiti based in East London, expressed dissatisfaction, stating that the association was not consulted by the minister before the announcement of the new executive late last month.

According to the Boxing Act, which governs professional boxing operations, the minister is mandated to appoint members of Boxing SA on a part-time basis after consulting with the association or federation of associations. The attorney-general informed the NPBPA’s attorney on Monday that the new board would not assume office, stating, “We are instructed by [the minister] that the new board… would not assume duties tomorrow, December 12, pending the finalization of part A of your client’s application.” Section 28 of the Boxing Act permits the establishment of associations for promoters, boxers, trainers, managers, and officials, forming a federation of separate associations.

Last year, BSA played a pivotal role in creating the promoters’ association, informing parliament recently of its intention to establish associations for other licensee categories. All recognized associations are required to submit annual reports on their activities to BSA annually. The NPBPA, if given the choice, would prefer Sakhiwe Sodo as the BSA board chairperson, citing his extensive administrative experience. Sodo was nominated by promoters to serve in the outgoing board, having been a licensee at the time, although he did not organize any tournaments.

Boxing SA National Professional Boxing Promoters’ Association Zizi Kodwa