CULTURAL differences overshadowed a sweet victory for reigning South African lightweight champion Patrick Malinga over Vus'Umzi Tyatyeka yesterday.
A fracas ensued shortly before the showdown presented by promoter Gladys Tsenene when Boxing SA's Eastern Cape provincial manager Phakamile Jacobs allegedly ordered Malinga to cut off his isiphandla, a traditional goat skin bangle or he wouldn't be allowed to go ahead with the fight. But Jacobs vehemently denied the claim.
Jacobs was in charge of Malinga's third defence against Tyatyeka in Port Elizabeth.
Malinga's younger brother Vus'Umuzi told Sowetan before the fight that Jacobs had said if Patrick refused to cut off the traditional bangle, he would not be allowed inside the ring and the title would be declared vacant.
"I hate it when people tell lies," responded Jacobs. "They are the ones who said they won't remove it and also won't fight. I said it was fine. Boxing SA will have to institute a disciplinary hearing."
Eventually Patrick got rid of his isiphandla and fought, flattening Tyatyeka in the eighth-round. Still the victory seemed less important than his isiphandla.
"People should respect other people's cultures. I have to answer when I get back home," said the champion.
"One thing I know, I will have to slaughter a goat and apologise to my ancestors, thanks to Phakamile Jacobs."