Wow. What a week!

I’m still trying to catch my breath after attending The Reckoning, the glamorous boxing event hosted at SunBet Arena on 1 May 2025. Courtesy of Legacy Boxing Promotions and KDT Comms and Agency, I was invited as media to witness a week filled with grit, glitz, and greatness — and it absolutely lived up to the hype.

It all kicked off on launch day, a red-carpet affair that felt more like a mini Oscars than the start of a boxing showcase. The moment I walked into the room, I could feel the electricity. Big energy, big personalities, big dreams. I had the chance to meet most of the boxers on the card, all laser-focused and ready for war. I also had the privilege of chatting with the visionary behind the entire event, Dewald Mostert. The dynamic promoter of Legacy Boxing Promotions, Dewald, oozes passion for the sport. He told me that The Reckoning had been his brainchild since December 2024, and that it wasn’t just another fight night — it was a statement about African boxing on the global stage. Mission accomplished, Dewald.

The media day on 28 April was a boxing journalist’s dream. I got the chance to interview every single fighter on the card, from rising stars to seasoned warriors. There was laughter, intensity, and even some pre-fight mind games. One moment I was talking strategy with Thabiso Mchunu, the next I was caught up in a hilarious exchange between two debutants hyping their undercard bout. But what struck me most was the mutual respect between the fighters — these men may fight in the ring, but they all understand the sacrifice and discipline it takes to step through the ropes.

On 30 April, I attended the official weigh-in, which was less about numbers and more about theatre. The fighters made weight, the tension crackled in the air, and — in true South African style — we were treated to a dose of humour from local comedians who had everyone, including some of the boxers, in stitches. It was a brilliant reminder that while boxing is brutal, it’s also entertainment — and The Reckoning nailed that balance.

A major highlight for me — one that I’ll carry with me forever — was getting a rare peek into the mindset of world champions. At the end of the weigh-in, I found myself observing an intense rules discussion between both camps and the fight commissioner. Watching Kevin Lerena and Serhiy Radchenko, along with their respective teams, up close in that moment was nothing short of electrifying. They knew it was only 24 hours before lives would be changed.

The body language, the attitude, the silent intensity. It spoke volumes. No extra words needed. You could feel the weight of preparation, the months of training, the laser-sharp focus as they prepared to go into battle. It was a behind-the-scenes view into the psychology of elite athletes, and I was in awe. That kind of access isn’t just rare, it’s once in a lifetime. And I know for a fact, nowhere else in the world would I have had the privilege to witness that level of professionalism and purpose so intimately.

Then came the big day. 1 May 2025. Freedom Day. And what better way to celebrate South African strength and talent than with a five-fight day card that had everything from technical masterclasses to explosive knockouts?

Early evening brought the main bouts. Chris "the wolf" Thompson was in beast mode. Calculated, clinical, and charismatic in the ring. His victory lit up the arena and set the tone for the evening. Thabiso Mchunu, the veteran with fists of iron, showed why he remains one of the most respected names in the game, with a split points decision. The footwork. The angles. The raw power. Pure boxing poetry. And then there was Tulz Mbenge, whose performance had the crowd roaring from the opening bell. His jab was snapping like a whip, and his ring control was simply majestic.

Then onto the main fight. The reason we were all here. Kevin Lerena vs Serhiy Radchenko for the World WBC Bridgerweight title. South Africa vs Ukraine. Thunder vs steel. Lerena, draped in South African pride, walked out to a hero’s welcome. Radchenko, all grit and resolve, looked every bit the challenger on a mission. The bout was electric. From the first bell, it was a tactical chess match, with bursts of savage power. Lerena’s raw strength gave Radchenko problems in the second round, but the Ukrainian wouldn’t go away easily. I was literally 30 cm away from the challenger as he was knocked to the canvas. I felt the knockdown as his sweat fell all over me. I thought the fight was over. I was wrong.

The bell saved him and with a heart of a lion, he came back for the third round — however, it didn’t last long. In the end, it was Lerena who had his hand raised — a well-deserved victory that had the SunBet Arena shaking and singing his name. Take it from me, Lerena is a beast, an animal in the ring. You don't know how great these guys are, unless you experience it up close and personal.

But beyond the fights, this event was dripping in star power. I rubbed shoulders with Dricus Du Plessis, fresh off his second UFC title defence, and the legend himself Vuyani Bungu, who was glowing with pride at how far SA boxing had come. Anele Mdoda, ever the queen of glam and charm, brought her signature sparkle, and there were influencers, athletes, musicians, and high-flyers in every corner. It felt like a cross between a championship fight and a fashion week after-party.

From the red carpet on arrival to some of the best seats in the house, Legacy Boxing Promotions and KDT Comms made sure this was more than an event — it was an experience. Dazzling lights, sharp suits, breathtaking dresses, camera flashes everywhere. If boxing needed a reminder of its place in modern culture, The Reckoning delivered it with uppercuts of style and sophistication.

As I sit here reflecting on the past few days, I can’t help but feel inspired. Boxing, at its best, is a mirror of life — struggle, resilience, glory. And at The Reckoning, I saw all of that and more. It wasn’t just about fists and belts — it was about creating a legacy and providing a platform for boxers.

Thank you to all involved. Boxing is alive. The future is bright. And I was lucky enough to be ringside for history.

[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]