Veteran promoters Hezekiel Mtshali and Obed Molekwa have applauded both sports minister Fikile Mbalula and SABC COO Hlaudi Motsoeneng for answering the call from millions of frustrated boxing followers to bring back boxing live on television and radio.

Mtshali and Molekwa‚ who have promoted boxing for over two decades‚ attended the first tournament that was beamed live on SABC in Boksburg a fortnight ago.

They said Mbalula and Motsoeneng have saved lives of many South Africans.

“Boxers‚ trainers‚ managers‚ promoters and fans were dying to see the return of boxing on television‚” said Mtshali. “Children will now go back to the gyms. Slowly but surely they will move away from bad substances like drinking alcohol excessively and doing drugs because this sport teaches clean living.

“Once the amateur ranks are in order‚ then the future of the professionals in bright.”

Molekwa said: “To say I am happy is an understatement. Our sport will thrive and actually reclaim its rightful place as the second-most popular spot to football in the country. Well done to Mbalula and Motsoeneng.”

Mtshali and Molekwa made one heartfelt plea: “May the roll out of television dates be fair and transparent.”

Boxing SA chairman Muditambi Ravele recently allayed fears that the sporting body will control the dates.

“It (the decision) will be between SABC‚ provincial governments and promoters‚ but I know for sure that there will bidding processes. Ours will be to make sure boxers are remunerated accordingly and in time‚” she said.

Mbalula said: “We have awakened the giant and I am excited. We will be going to all the provinces once a month.”

Said Motsoeneng: “It is about risk. I told Mbalula that if people want to stop us from bringing boxing back on television and radio by taking us to court‚ then so be it.

“South Africans are now excited. I am now approached by many business people who want to sponsor boxing. We are coming with miracles…watch this space.”