RISING star Luzuko Siyo has relinquished his South African junior-flyweight title, paving the way for former champions Mfundo Gwayana and Vuyani Kheswa to lock horns in a bid to claim the crown.

Siyo's handlers have revealed that he will now campaign internationally, starting from March. The Duncan Village-born Siyo had only been a national champion since June 3 last year, following an eighth-round stoppage of Monwabisi Gundwana in Port Alfred.

The 21-year-old boxer only defended the title once - stopping Sebelomzi Zimela in 40 seconds at East London's Orient Theatre on October 23.

Yesterday, Siyo's manager Dingaan Somtsora sent a letter informing Boxing South Africa that his charge was vacating the national title.

"We have decided to vacate the title in order for Luzuko to campaign internationally," said Somtsora.

"No boxer has challenged us and it really does not make sense for us to hold on to the title. The boy is excited about the prospects of fighting against overseas opponents."

Somtsora also revealed that Siyo will make his international debut at a boxing tournament on March 3 at Emperor's Palace in Kempton Park, which will be promoted by Rodney Berman's Golden Gloves Promotions.

Eyethu Promotions boss Mzimasi Mnguni said: "I'm organising an international bout for this boy in March. This follows after last year's negotiations with Rodney where we decided that Siyo should go the international route. I want to groom this boy and I'm happy because Rodney is prepared to make sure that things happen for Siyo. I have no doubt that Siyo's involvement with Rodney is going to be beneficial to the boy."

The title, which Siyo vacated, was previously held by Sizwe Sinyabi who lost the crown when BSA stripped him for what they said was a medical reason.

BSA director of operations Loyiso Mtya has confirmed that Siyo has vacated his title.