Latest news with #ABU
The Citizen
15-07-2025
- Sport
- The Citizen
Donjuan ‘DiDi' van Heerden claims ABU title in career-defining victory
South African middleweight boxer Donjuan 'DiDi' van Heerden delivered a commanding performance at Emperors Palace, capturing the vacant African Boxing Union (ABU) middleweight title in front of a packed and electrified crowd. This landmark victory marks a major milestone in DiDi's professional career, firmly establishing him as one of the continent's most promising boxing talents. Known for his relentless dedication and iron will, DiDi has forged an impressive path through South Africa's amateur boxing ranks. Having competed in over 65 amateur fights — with only two losses and seven national titles — DiDi's transition into the professional arena has been marked by discipline, determination, and fierce passion. Returning to the Golden Gloves' prestigious Titans of Africa event, where he previously faced defeat, DiDi demonstrated remarkable resilience. His devastating body shots and precision uppercuts dominated the fight, landing with such force they echoed throughout the venue, signalling the formidable power and skill he now commands. 'Donjuan has always had talent, but it's his work ethic and absolute refusal to quit that sets him apart. This win is the culmination of years of relentless dedication and the ability to rise above every setback,' said Colleen McAusland, his professional manager. Whether loved or criticised, Donjuan van Heerden's brilliance in the ring is undeniable and he is most definitely back. Expressing gratitude to his team, family, and supporters, DiDi described the ABU title as only the beginning. 'This is a stepping stone towards building a lasting legacy in boxing, not just for South Africa, but on the international stage,' he said. With this career-defining victory, DiDi has not only claimed the ABU title but has also announced himself as a force to be reckoned with in the world of middleweight boxing. Fans and critics alike will be eagerly watching his next steps on the path to greatness. Quick facts about DiDi: Age: 24 Hometown: Meyerton, Midvaal, South Africa Amateur record: Over 70 bouts, six-time South African Cchampion Professional record: 10 wins, 3 losses, 7 KOs Titles: Gauteng Middleweight champion, ABU Middleweight champion (July 2025) Awards: Prospect of the year Manager: Colleen McAusland At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
The Citizen
27-06-2025
- Sport
- The Citizen
Vaal's Iron Dragon ready to roar
MEYERTON – South Africa's rising middleweight star, Donjuan 'Iron Dragon' van Heerden, is just 23 years old and already knocking on the door of international recognition. On Saturday, 5 July, he'll take a major step forward when he faces Dean Promnick for the vacant African Boxing Union (ABU) middleweight title at Emperor's Palace in Kempton Park. The high-stakes bout headlines the Golden Gloves event, 'Titans of Africa', and will be broadcast live on SuperSport. 'It's an incredible privilege and an honour,' van Heerden says about the upcoming title shot. 'Fighting for the ABU title, especially on an iconic stage like Emperor's Palace, means everything to me. This isn't just a personal dream, it's a chance to put my name on the global boxing map. A win here will not only reward all the sacrifices but open the door to international opportunities, ' says the born and bred Meyertonner. For Van Heerden, this bout carries more weight than any previous fight not just physically, but symbolically. 'This fight is different. It's not just a match, it's a statement. Everything about this camp has been intense. Every day feels like fight night, and I push through it. My last two fights were at super middleweight, but now I'm back at my natural weight. It's time to show people who I really am in the middleweight division.' Van Heerden admits footage of Promnick is scarce, but not lacking in what his team needed. 'There's not a lot of footage out there, just a few short clips, but we used what we could. I've watched a couple of his fights, one of them live. We brought in elite sparring partners with a similar style to his. The sparring was intense 10 to 12 rounds with fresh partners. We focused on pressure, fitness, and tactical awareness. I'm not just fit… I'm sharp and ready to improvise.' 'It's never easy to fight a southpaw, but I'm a very sharp southpaw myself. If he survives my power shots, it's going to be a long night for him.' Van Heerden is clear that this is not the final destination, but the first real stepping stone toward global ambitions. The ABU title is a massive continental title that opens international doors. My goal is to fight for a top-15 WBA, WBC, or IBF ranking within the next year. This is the bridge. I want to win this title, maybe defend it once or twice, maybe even go for the SA title too and then step onto the world stage.' Coming from a well-known boxing family, Don-Juan embraces both the pressure and the inspiration of being Chris van Heerden's younger brother. 'It's a bit of both. I'm proud of what Chris has achieved. It proves what's possible for a South African boxer. But I also want to build my own name. I don't want to just be known as Chris's brother. I want people to know Donjuan.' 'I've had amazing coaching and mentorship—my dad always said, 'Keep your head low and your work high.' I've also received guidance from Brian Mitchell, as I've been sparring at their gym in Edenvale. I can honestly say this will be my best performance ever.' Van Heerden also credits promoter Rodney Berman and Golden Gloves for reshaping his career. 'Everything changed. Rodney believes in me. Golden Gloves brings structure, opportunity, and professionalism that is what prepares you for the big stage.' 'We've got a tight schedule with my coach Arafaat Kock and my fitness team. Every detail is planned—from recovery to media to sparring. I'm surrounded by people who bring out the best in me. Coach Arafaat pushes me every session and stands by me no matter what.' Looking ahead, Van Heerden sees himself defending titles and expanding his reach. 'I see myself with one or two title defences under my belt and hopefully an invite to fight internationally—if that fits Golden Gloves' plans. I want to be known on the international circuit, working my way toward a world title. It's in my blood. I grew up around boxing.' 'First, I want to defend the ABU title and build my name in Africa. But I'm ready for any big challenge, whether that's the SA title or opportunities in Europe, the U.S., or the Far East. I'm ready to travel and prove my worth.' Reflecting on his only recent defeat, Van Heerden is candid and confident. 'I learned a lot from that loss. I took the fight on one week's notice, but I won't use that as an excuse. As a fighter, you have to be ready every day of the week, every month, all year. That guy wasn't in my league. He got lucky. If we fought 365 times, he might win once I will win the other 364.' 'Since then, I've worked on distance control, defensive movement, and my jab. I've sharpened my ring IQ. I'm now a more balanced, smarter, and more dangerous fighter than ever before. Come 5 July, I'll be ready to fight inside the pocket or outbox him from range—it depends on how I feel that night.' And he closes with certainty: 'One thing's for sure. I'm ready. And I will win this fight.' At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
Scottish Sun
14-06-2025
- Sport
- Scottish Sun
Abu Yusupov dead at 39: Undefeated boxer stabbed to death after altercation in train station
The 39-year-old leaves behind his wife and three children BOXING TRAGEDY Abu Yusupov dead at 39: Undefeated boxer stabbed to death after altercation in train station Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) THE BOXING world is mourning the tragic loss of Abu Yusupov. The Russian was tragically stabbed to death in Berlin on Tuesday following a dispute with a group of people, it's been claimed. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 4 Boxer Abu Yusupov has died aged 39 after being stabbed in Berlin 4 The undefeated Russian was stabbed in the neck after a dispute with a group of people at Gesundbrunnen train station Credit: INSTAGRAM@ABU_DER_WOLF 4 The Chechen succumbed to his injuries in the hospital Credit: INSTAGRAM@ABU_DER_WOLF According to Tagesspiegel, the 39-year-old was stabbed in the neck with a knife during the altercation at Gesundbrunnen train station. Police are said to have tried to resuscitate the Chechen before an ambulance transported him to the hospital. But the undefeated Yusupov tragically succumbed to his injuries. News of Yusupov's passing travelled fast and sparked scores of tributes from fight fans worldwide. One wrote: 'Rest in peace to a true fighter, both in the ring and in life. "Your strength, heart, and friendship will never be forgotten. 'You may be gone, but your spirit will keep swinging with us forever.' Another wrote: 'Rest up.' 4 Tributes have poured in for the late Abu Yusupov, who leaves behind a wife and three children Credit: INSTAGRAM@ABU_DER_WOLF And another wrote with a praying ah da emoji: 'RIP.' One remarked: 'We would like to express our deep sympathy and condolences to the bereaved. R.I.P. Champion' Another chimed in: 'May he rest in peace.' The WBC also paid tribute, writing: 'WBC mourns the passing of Abu Yusupov "Undefeated Chechen boxer Abu Yusupov (9-0-1), 39, was fatally stabbed in Berlin, Germany. "In his most recent bout last January, he defeated Giorgi Kandelaki by decision. "Abu is survived by his wife and three young children. "His story of perseverance and love for boxing will forever be etched in our sport. "The entire WBC family and its President, Mauricio Sulaiman, send our deepest condolences to Abu's family and friends during this difficult time." The late Yusupov made his professional debut back in 2020, scoring a 39-second knockout of Benjamin Kunz. He'd go on to register eight more wins, six of which came by way of stoppage. His last outing took place in January and saw him register a decision victory over Giorgi Kandelaki in a six-round affair. Berlin police are currently investigating the tragic circumstances which led to Yuspov's passing.
The Irish Sun
14-06-2025
- Sport
- The Irish Sun
Abu Yusupov dead at 39: Undefeated boxer stabbed to death after altercation in train station
THE BOXING world is mourning the tragic loss of Abu Yusupov. The Russian was tragically stabbed to death in Berlin on Tuesday following a dispute with a group of people, it's been claimed. Advertisement 4 Boxer Abu Yusupov has died aged 39 after being stabbed in Berlin 4 The undefeated Russian was stabbed in the neck after a dispute with a group of people at Gesundbrunnen train station Credit: INSTAGRAM@ABU_DER_WOLF 4 The Chechen succumbed to his injuries in the hospital Credit: INSTAGRAM@ABU_DER_WOLF According to Police are said to have tried to resuscitate the Chechen before an ambulance transported him to the hospital. But the undefeated Yusupov tragically succumbed to his injuries. News of Yusupov's passing travelled fast and sparked scores of tributes from fight fans worldwide. Advertisement READ MORE BOXING NEWS One wrote: 'Rest in peace to a true fighter, both in the ring and in life. "Your strength, heart, and friendship will never be forgotten. 'You may be gone, but your spirit will keep swinging with us forever.' Another wrote: 'Rest up.' Advertisement Most read in Boxing 4 Tributes have poured in for the late Abu Yusupov, who leaves behind a wife and three children Credit: INSTAGRAM@ABU_DER_WOLF And another wrote with a praying ah da emoji: 'RIP.' One remarked: 'We would like to express our deep sympathy and condolences to the bereaved. R.I.P. Champion' Another chimed in: 'May he rest in peace.' Advertisement The WBC also paid tribute, writing: 'WBC mourns the passing of Abu Yusupov "Undefeated Chechen boxer Abu Yusupov (9-0-1), 39, was fatally stabbed in Berlin, "In his most recent bout last January, he defeated Giorgi Kandelaki by decision. "Abu is survived by his wife and three young children. Advertisement "His story of perseverance and love for boxing will forever be etched in our sport. "The entire WBC family and its President, Mauricio Sulaiman, send our deepest condolences to Abu's family and friends during this difficult time." The late Yusupov made his professional debut back in 2020, scoring a 39-second knockout of Benjamin Kunz. He'd go on to register eight more wins, six of which came by way of stoppage. Advertisement His last outing took place in January and saw him register a decision victory over Giorgi Kandelaki in a six-round affair. Berlin police are currently investigating the tragic circumstances which led to Yuspov's passing.
The Citizen
08-06-2025
- Sport
- The Citizen
Edenvale boxers shine and stumble at Emperors Palace fight night
It was a boxing bonanza as fighters from Edenvale recently stepped into the ring at Emperors Palace. Three local fighters competed in The Coronation Box and Dine Tournament, held at the Centre Court on May 31, delivering a night filled with both triumph and heartbreak. Headlining the event was Primrose resident Shervantaigh Koopman, who trains out of the Edenvale-based Brian Mitchell Boxing Academy. ALSO READ: Boxing SA under fire as retired boxers seek missing millions Koopman, who entered the ring with a 15-fight unbeaten streak, had his world title hopes dashed after a tough loss to Portugal's Uisma 'Monster' Lima, the defending IBO Super Welterweight champion. Lima, born in Angola, came out aggressively in the opening round. It took Koopman several rounds to adjust to the champion's unrelenting pressure. Though Koopman appeared to be gaining ground in the third and fourth rounds, Lima's intensity didn't wane. By the fifth round, the crowd began to understand why the Monster had defeated his previous three unbeaten opponents. The decisive moment came in the ninth round when Lima landed a vicious left hook that sent Koopman to the canvas. ALSO READ: Local boxers give fans a thrill in tournament Though he bravely got back to his feet, another punishing left prompted Koopman's corner to throw in the towel—ending his unbeaten streak at 15 fights. Despite the setback, Koopman and his team are expected to regroup, re-strategize, and return stronger in the near future. Kuse overcomes early knockdown to secure victory In the undercard event, South African and ABU Strawweight champion Siyakholwa 'One Way' Kuse, also from the Brian Mitchell Boxing Academy, faced the experienced Samuel Salva of the Philippines in an international minimumweight bout. Salva shocked the crowd by dropping Kuse in the first round with a furious opening attack. ALSO READ: Edenvale boxers take to the ring However, Kuse beat the count and used his full skillset to weather the storm. As the rounds progressed, he found his rhythm and steadily turned the tide. By the later rounds, Kuse was in full control. In the ninth, he returned the favor by sending Salva to the canvas. Although Salva beat the count and completed all 10 rounds, Kuse had done enough to earn a unanimous decision victory, with the judges scoring the bout 97–91, 95–94, and 97–92. In the opening bout of the evening, fellow Edenvale fighter Tyla Promnick remained unbeaten after dominating debutant Zanele Masilela of eMalahleni in a strawweight contest. Promnick, trained by Alan Toweel at the Alan Toweel Boxing Gym in Linden, dropped Masilela three times in the opening round. She continued the onslaught in the second, forcing Masilela's corner to throw in the towel just 57 seconds into the round, giving Promnick a TKO victory in the fight, which was scheduled for four rounds. Promnick now boasts an impressive record of 3–0. At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
