“The Last Sting of the Wasp”
Ground Up Sports Promotion & Events successfully delivered “The Last Sting of the Wasp” at Jan Smuts Stadium in East London – bringing together boxing supporters, sponsors, athletes, stakeholders and entertainment lovers for one of the biggest boxing showcases on the Eastern Cape sporting calendar.
The tournament marked the official farewell bout of South African boxing veteran Xolisani “Nomeva” Ndongeni and celebrated not only his contribution to the sport, but also the rich boxing heritage of the Eastern Cape. The event featured an exciting programme of professional contests, title fights, women’s boxing bouts, amateur showcases, live entertainment and festival-style experiences throughout the day.
Supporters from across the Eastern Cape and beyond gathered at Jan Smuts Stadium to witness a historic evening of boxing and entertainment as Ground Up Sports Promotion & Events delivered a premium sporting spectacle aimed at restoring the province’s status as a major destination for boxing in South Africa. This week’s activities started with two successful events – an official press conference at Absa Stadium on Tuesday, 19 May 2026; followed by a Boxing Weigh-In event at Mdantsane Mall on Friday, 22 May 2026.
The programme for the main event – “The Last of the Wasp” Farewell fight featured several high-profile contests including the farewell main event between Xolisani “Nomeva” Ndongeni and Chumani Sgadla Thunzi, the IBO World Mini-Flyweight Title bout between Nhlanhla Tyirha and Nhlakanipho Kunene, the WBC JNR Flyweight Youth World Title contest between Siseko Teyisi and Neel Jacobs as well as the WBC International Female Bantamweight Title fight between Sharadene Fortuin and Alice Mbewe.
Beyond the action inside the ring, supporters were treated to live music performances and entertainment activations throughout the tournament which contributed to the festival-style atmosphere around the event. Performing artists included: NaakMusiQ, GQ XCLSV, Groovie Christ, LV the Messiah, Mjazz, Misser, DJ Lindor, Deep London, Man B and Master Jam; while MCs Jigga and TheLovely Khanyie kept supporters entertained and engaged throughout the day.
The combination of boxing, music and entertainment created a vibrant experience for supporters and families attending the tournament. This prestigious event attracted key stakeholders from across the sporting industry including representatives from Boxing South Africa, promoters, former boxing champions, trainers, gym owners, investors, sponsors, broadcasters, government representatives and respected members of the boxing fraternity. Distinguished guests and stakeholders in attendance included Boxing South Africa CEO Tsholofelo Lejaka, WBC Strawweight Champion Siyakholwa Kuse, South African boxing legend Brian Mitchell and renowned boxing trainer and mentor Masibulele ‘Hawk’ Makepula to name a few.
Ground Up Sports Promotion acknowledged the important role played by the boxing fraternity and industry stakeholders in supporting the growth and development of boxing in South Africa. The Promotion’s company expressed sincere gratitude to the people of the Eastern Cape for the overwhelming support shown throughout the week and during the tournament.
The organisation acknowledged the support received from local communities, supporters, businesses, partners, sponsors, government stakeholders, security and event personnel, volunteers and the media for contributing towards the successful delivery of “The Last Sting of the Wasp”.
Ru’Nick Jonas, the title partner of “The Last Sting of the Wasp”, praised the success of the event and the importance of supporting boxing development in South Africa. “The love and support shown for boxing and for ‘Nomeva’ was truly special. There is a reason why they call him ‘The Wasp’ and he definitely went out with a bang,” said Ru’Nick Jonas.
Tournament Results Summary
Bout & Boxers Winner/Result
1. Xolisani “Nomeva” Ndongeni vs. Chumani Sgadla Thunzi – Main Supporting Bout: Nomeva won – TKO Round 7
2. Nhlanhla Tyirha vs. Nhlakanipho Kunene – IBO World Mini-Flyweight Title – Main Bout: Nhlanhla Tyirha won on points – technical decision
3. Siseko Teyisi vs. Neel Jacobs – WBC JNR Flyweight Youth World Title” Siseko won on points – unanimous decision
4. Sharadene Fortuin vs. Alice Mbewe – WBC International Female Bantamweight Title: Sharadene Fortuin won on points – unanimous decision
5. Lindelani Sibisi vs. Bongani Fule – SA Featherweight Title: Lindelani Sibisi defended his title on points
6. Jason Phaal vs. Danny Ngokwey – Cruiserweight: Jason Phaal won – TKO Round 3
7. Tony Mayala vs. Humbulani Netshautshezi – Welterweight: Tony Mayala won – TKO Round 4
8. Nqaba Dantile vs. Anele Hashe – Mini-Flyweight: Nqaba Dantile won – TKO Round 5
“The Last Sting of the Wasp” served as more than just a boxing tournament. The event celebrated the remarkable career and contribution of Xolisani “Nomeva” Ndongeni who officially brought the curtain down on a professional career spanning more than 16 years.
Xolisani “Nomeva” Ndongeni also reflected on the significance of the event and the support received throughout his boxing journey. “We come from disadvantaged communities where very few people manage to overcome the challenges around them. Boxing changed my life and gave me purpose, discipline and direction. I truly believe that if I had not found boxing, I would not be standing here today. The sport helped me become the person I was meant to be and for that I will always be grateful,” said Ndongeni.
Widely respected as one of the Eastern Cape’s finest boxing exports, Ndongeni built a reputation as a disciplined, fearless and dedicated fighter who proudly represented South Africa on both national and international stages throughout his career. From humble beginnings in Duncan Village to competing at the highest level of professional boxing, Nomeva’s journey has inspired many young fighters across the province and country.
His farewell bout symbolised not only the end of an era but also the celebration of a legacy built on sacrifice, resilience, discipline and commitment to the sport. Ground Up Sports Promotion & Events described the occasion as an important moment in preserving and honouring the legacy of Eastern Cape boxing legends; while inspiring the next generation of champions.
Ground Up Sports Promotion & Events CEO L.V. Magqaza said: “The success of the tournament reflects the growing appetite for professionally staged boxing events in the province and the importance of investing in the future of the sport. In addition, the company reiterated its commitment to growing boxing in South Africa through professionally organised events that create opportunities for athletes, communities and commercial partners; while restoring pride in the province’s rich boxing heritage.
The official event hashtags are: #maymeva #GroundUpSportsPromotion #BoxingSA #EastLondonEvents #TheLastStingOfTheWasp