BOXING legend Jacob "Baby Jake" Matlala is sick and cannot foot his own medical bills.
Pastor Allan McCauley of the Rhema Church confirmed that the four-time world champion had hit rock-bottom financially and that his church was trying to raise funds for him.
McCauley said the 48-year-old former WBO and IBA junior flyweight, WBO and WBU flyweight titlist had been suffering from double pneumonia and was discharged from Lesedi Clinic in Dobsonville, Soweto, on October 13.
He said the pint-sized pugilist, who hung up his gloves in March 2 2002 with 53 wins (26 KOs), 13 losses and two draws, spent three weeks at the clinic.
McCauley said yesterday: "Baby Jake has been a member of our congregation here at Rhema for a number of years and has always helped us to help others through Hands of Compassion, our ministry to the poor.
"He has also been a personal friend of both myself and Pastor Ray McCauley.
"Due to his recent illness, he has incurred substantial medical bills, and unfortunately he has no medical aid.
"We have already assisted him with part payment of these bills, but there is still a fair amount outstanding, and so with his consent we are raising funds on his behalf.
"We are excited at the prospect of the boxing fraternity organising a tournament in order to raise funds. SuperSport has already indicated that it is willing to screen such a tournament for free."
He said that Matlala and his wife, Mapule, have sent their gratitude to everyone for their support and prayers.
"In order to protect their privacy, they have requested not to be interviewed or photographed at this time. Anyone wishing to help can contact me on 011-796-4069 during office hours."
MacCauley added that Matlala was recovering at his home in Winchester, Johannesburg.
Promoter Rodney Berman reportedly announced that he, Emperors Palace and SuperSport will jointly present a boxing tournament to raise funds for Matlala.
Golden Gloves Promotions publicist Brian Mitchell confirmed that Berman, Palace of Dreams and the Channel of Champions will jointly present such a tournament.
He was, however, not sure when.