LISBETH Sivhaga has promised the people of Limpopo and her fans an early Christmas gift in the form of the South African flyweight belt.

The Limpopo boxing star will trade leather with Mdantsane's Noxolo Makhanavu at Meropa Casino in Polokwane on Saturday night at 7pm.

"I am ready for the big one and I have been training hard for it. I'm looking forward to a successful evening," Sivhaga said yesterday.

"This is a golden opportunity for me to ascend the national stage, and it is also an opportunity to market myself and get new fans in my camp.

"My message to my fans is that I will not disappoint them and they will get an early Christmas gift. The national title will remain in Limpopo."

Makhanavu could not be reached for comment yesterday but is also reported to be in great shape.

Limpopo Boxing Promotions chairman Thomas Monepya said they were geared up for what promises to be an exciting tournament, which will also include a provincial title fight.

"This is going to be a historic day in Limpopo. It will be the first time we will be staging a women's national title fight in the province," Monepya said.

Boxing promoter Josias Maphepha said: "We would like to thank Meropa Casino, Carling Black Label and the Limpopo department of sport, arts and culture for their support.

"Tickets are available at Computicket outlets and Shoprite-Checkers stores at R50. VIP tickets cost R150 and the package will include food, drinks and snacks," added Maphepha, a Limpopo business tycoon who is also involved in various community development projects.