As the world mourns the loss of legendary boxer Dingaan Thobela, fondly known as “The Rose of Soweto,” preparations are underway to bid farewell to the iconic sportsman. Reported by ZiMoja, Thobela, who passed away at the age of 57, will be honoured with a memorial service tomorrow at the Arena Holdings offices in Parktown, Johannesburg. The service, scheduled between 12 and 3 pm, is expected to draw dignitaries, members of the sports fraternity, including Ministers of Sports, Arts, and Culture Zizi Kodwa, and celebrities.
Family spokesperson Eddy Mutungutungu expressed gratitude for the anticipated outpouring of support and announced that Thobela’s final resting place will be at Heroes Acre in Westpark Cemetery on Thursday. Also reported by ZiMoja, the announcement comes amidst revelations that the family suspects Thobela succumbed to a heart attack, pending autopsy results. Despite the tragic circumstances surrounding his passing, sources close to the family affirm that foul play is not suspected.
ZiMoja also reported that, Thobela’s ex-wife, Sandra Thobela, along with their two children, Ntombi and Dingaan Junior, arrived in the country from Spain to pay their respects. Thobela’s illustrious career, marked by world title victories across different divisions and a memorable triumph over American Tony ‘The Tiger’ Lopez for the WBA lightweight title in 1993, solidified his status as a sporting legend. His contributions to boxing not only elevated his own career but also left an indelible mark on South African sports history, forever etching his name on the world map.
