The demand for tickets to the Emperors Palace fistic extravaganza on July 11, which features three headline attractions, has left Golden Gloves Promoter Rodney Berman stunned.

The demand for tickets to the Emperors Palace fistic extravaganza on July 11, which features three headline attractions, has left Golden Gloves Promoter Rodney Berman stunned.

"I haven't had this sort of early response to a tournament since Hasim Rahman fought Lennox Lewis in 2001," said Berman yesterday.

"Obviously, the three main bouts - Phillip Ndou v Lovemore Ndou (IBO world junior welterweight title eliminator), Jared Lovett v Tommy Oosthuizen (vacant IBO world youth light heavyweight title) and Simpiwe Vetyeka v Eric Barcelona (vacant IBO world bantamweight title) - represent one of the most appetising fight menus in years.

"And with two months to go before the actual event, it's mind-boggling that patrons are already requesting tickets. In appreciation of the early demand, booking for the tournament will probably open this week," said Berman.

It is expected that a ringside seat will cost around R250. - Sapa