Following the success of The Reckoning — where WBC Bridgerweight Champion Kevin Lerena delivered a commanding performance at SunBet Arena — South African boxing continues its resurgence with another major event: Fistic Havoc, set for June 21, 2025, at The Galleria in Sandton.

This eight-fight card, presented by Aquila Boxing Promotions, is more than a night of competition. It represents a deliberate effort to strengthen the domestic boxing ecosystem and project African talent onto the global stage.

A Main Event with Continental Significance

Headlining the evening is Boyd Allen, a former MMA standout who has transitioned into boxing with remarkable success. Allen will square off against Kagiso Bagwasi, Botswana’s undefeated rising star, in a bout for the IBO All Africa Title.

While the title itself is prestigious, the stakes extend beyond silverware. The fight is emblematic of a broader continental rivalry and serves as a litmus test for the readiness of both athletes to move into the international boxing conversation.

A Deep Undercard Showcasing South African Talent

The supporting bouts highlight the depth of talent across South Africa and the region, featuring a mix of seasoned professionals and promising newcomers. Each fight offers a compelling narrative, with athletes eager to stake their claims as future contenders:

Kaine Fourie vs. Sifiso Hlongwane

Lindokuhle Khuzwayo vs. Jeff Magagane

Leo Careri vs. Kangolo Tshimanga

Tiisetso Matikinca vs. Thabiso Mpolokeng

Luke Hendrikz vs. Thapelo Nkoane

Sabelo Ndwandwe vs. Shawn Nkuna

Rene Tshimanga vs. Amedo Ekala

These matchups are not merely undercard fillers — they serve as meaningful opportunities for fighters to gain visibility, experience, and momentum.

Kevin Lerena: Champion and Promoter

At the helm of this event is Kevin Lerena, whose dual role as a world champion and the founder of Aquila Boxing Promotions (ABP) positions him as a key figure in shaping the next era of South African boxing. Through ABP, Lerena has committed to creating sustainable pathways for African athletes to compete at the highest levels of the sport.

“We’re building more than events,” Lerena states. “We’re building infrastructure, opportunities, and the future of boxing on this continent.”

Supported by major partners such as SuperSport, World Sports Betting, and Tigris Wealth, ABP is quickly establishing itself as a premier promotional outfit — combining professional standards with long-term developmental goals.

A Pivotal Moment for African Boxing

Fistic Havoc symbolizes more than an evening of elite competition. It marks a turning point — a renewed commitment to elevating the sport within South Africa and positioning its athletes as contenders on the world stage.

For spectators, it offers a rare opportunity to experience top-tier boxing in an intimate and professionally run environment. For the fighters, it is a crucial platform — a chance to prove themselves under pressure. And for South African boxing as a whole, it is a decisive step forward in its ongoing revival.

As the lights go up in Sandton and the first bell sounds, Fistic Havoc will serve as a compelling reminder: South African boxing is not only back — it’s building toward something greater.
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]