: Ground Up Sports Promotion & Events confirms growing momentum ahead of the highly anticipated national boxing tournament: “The Last Sting of the Wasp” – taking place on Saturday, 23 May 2026 at Jan Smuts Stadium in Arcadia, East London.
This week started with a successful press conference, now followed by the official boxing weigh-in event taking place on Friday, 22 May at Mdantsane City Mall. This is all in preparation of the prestigious main event that will mark the official farewell fight of South African boxing star Xolisani “Nomeva” Ndongeni and is expected to deliver one of the most significant moments on the local boxing calendar.
Positioned as a celebration of legacy, heritage and sporting excellence, the tournament will unite boxing fans, corporate stakeholders, entertainment personalities and the broader sporting community for a world-class experience in the Eastern Cape. East London that is widely recognised as part of South Africa’s “Boxing Mecca” – the event aims to honour the province’s rich boxing history, while also creating meaningful economic and social impact through sport.
The Title Sponsor, Ru’Nick Jonas Director Of Ru Nick Jonas Productions (Pty) Ltd said: “I’m excited to be a part of an event with a platform that uplifts talent, discipline and community. Being part of Nomeva’s retirement match makes this moment even more special. As we celebrate a fighter who has given so much to the sport and standing with him in this final push is, “one for the books”. As we continue to prepare for the big day, I’m reminded of the verse from Philippians 4:13,‘I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me’. This is going to be more than just a tournament; it’s the beginning of a meaningful legacy.”
The growing support around: “The Last Sting of the Wasp” continues to highlight the significance of the event beyond boxing, with respected figures from the music and entertainment industry including NaakMusiQ and Deep London – that are lending their voices and presence in support of the occasion. Their involvement reflects the cultural impact of the tournament and its ability to unite sport, entertainment and community under one platform, while celebrating South African excellence.
“It is always important for us as creatives to support platforms that uplift communities and celebrate South African excellence. ‘The Last Sting of the Wasp’ event is bigger than boxing, it is about legacy, culture and bringing people together through sport and entertainment. I am looking forward to being part of such a special occasion in East London,” said NaakMusiQ.
And, according to Deep London: “The energy around this event already feels incredible. Sport and music have a unique way of connecting people and creating unforgettable memories. I am honoured to support an event that celebrates one of SA’s boxing greats, while also shining a light on the Eastern Cape.”
The event is also expected to attract a distinguished audience from the sporting and business sectors; while further reinforcing East London’s reputation as a destination for major sporting events. Sporting stars confirmed to attend include Makhaya Ntini and Andile Jali. The entertainment line-up will include performances by GQ XCLSV, DJ Lindor, Groovie Christ, MJazz, LV the Messiah, Master Jam and Misser.
South African cricket legend, Makhaya Ntini has also confirmed his support for the event – highlighting the growing crossover support from respected figures across different sporting codes. “As athletes, we understand the discipline, sacrifice and commitment it takes to build a legacy. Events like these are important for South African sport because they inspire communities and create opportunities for the next generation. I am proud to support: ‘The Last Sting of the Wasp’ and celebrate a special moment for boxing in the Eastern Cape,” added Ntini.
The tournament will also welcome South African boxing legends Welcome Ncita and Vuyani Bhungu alongside current boxing champions Phumelela Cafu and Siya Kuse. A live music afterparty experience. Supporters attending the tournament can expect: A full professional and amateur boxing fight card; Female boxing bouts featuring top talent; International fighter appearances; A curated food truck village and a live music afterparty experience. The Official Fight Card includes the following:
- Main Title Fight: Xolisani Ndongeni vs Chumani Sgadla Thunzi
- IBO World Mini-Flyweight Title: Nhlanhla Tyirha vs Nhlakanipho Kunene
- WBC JNR Flyweight Youth World Title: Siseko Teyisi vs Neel Jacobs
- WBC International Female Bantamweight Title: Sharadene Fortuin vs Alice Mbewe
- SA Featherweight Title: Lindelani Sibisi vs Bongani Fule
- Cruiserweight: L Jason Phaal vs Danny Ngokwev
- Welterweight: Tony Mayala vs Humbulani Netshautshezi
- Mini-Flyweight: Nqaba Dantile vs Anele Hashe
Ticket Information
- General Admission: Phase 1 – Adults R300 | Students R200
- NB: NO bottles allowed at the venue.
General Admission includes access to all bouts, the food truck area and music festival general seating. Tickets are available via Quicket: Quicket – The Last Sting of the Wasp. Supporters and corporate organisations are encouraged to secure tickets and hospitality packages early as availability remains limited.
Public Access and Logistics Information
Members of the public attending the event are advised that the main general entrance via Graham Road and Uber drop-off zone will be accessible via Corner of Recreation and Graham Road. General parking access points will also operate through designated areas around Jan Smuts Stadium. Please note that the Recreation Road will be used for Media and VIP access only. Motorists and Uber operators are encouraged to make use of the approved event access routes and follow official event signage and traffic marshals on arrival.
Ground Up Sports Promotion & Events remains committed to delivering a premium sporting spectacle that celebrates South African boxing heritage, while creating opportunities for development, community upliftment and commercial collaboration. The official event hashtags are: #maymeva #GroundUpSportsPromotion #BoxingSA #EastLondonEvents #TheLastStingOfTheWasp
