Alex gives son Thabiso green light to join Golden Gloves

THABISO "The Rock" Mchunu is delighted that his father and trainer, Alex, has given him his blessing to join the trainer and promoter of his choice.

"I am very happy that my father has opened his heart and allowed me to go where I want to," said Mchunu, who is from KwaXimba in Cato Ridge, near Pietermaritzburg.

The current South African cruiserweight champion said he would join trainer Elias "Mr Fantastic" Tshabalala and Golden Gloves on Wednesday.

Alex, who has trained his son from the amateur ranks, said: "I realised after speaking to my friends about Thabiso's intentions that I should not stand in his way. At first I was reluctant to let him go but I have given him my blessing. I will still be there to give him advice."

Alex said his son's move to Johannesburg could be a blessing in disguise because Mchunu has not been given the credit he deserves in KwaZulu-Natal. Mchunu, 22, is the first local black boxer to win a national title in his third fight.

"I am proud not only to be his father," Alex said, "but also to be his trainer." He guided Mchnunu to WBA Pan African glory in his fifth fight. Six of his eight opponents failed to see the last round.

Tshabalala said: "The boy will be groomed accordingly and I can assure you that he will be a world champion."

Alex was against his son joining Tshabalala and GGP but had a change of heart after promoter Branco Milenkovic failed to show interest in his son.