ZOLANI "Last Born" Tete is a world boxing champion-in-waiting.

This assertion was made by veteran trainers Stanley Ndlovu and Eugene Khanyile, reacting after watching Tete's workout at Ndlovu's Sir Stan's Athletics Club in Jeppe, Johannesburg.

Tete, from Mdantsane near East London, is preparing for his IBF super bantamweight championship against Teiru Kinoshita in Japan on July 15.

Tete won the rights to fight for the vacant world title last November after knocking out Juan Carlos Sanchez in the 10th round in Mexico.

Myekeni took his charge through his paces at Ndlovu's gym where Tete had six tough rounds of sparring against Khanyile's charge Sibusiso Twani.

"Tete will bring home the title," said Ndlovu, who guided his son Takalani "The Panther" Ndlovu to a number of titles.

"Tete is sharp like a razor. He knows how to extricate himself from trouble. He's got very good hand speed but, over and above, he is a marvel to watch."

Khanyile said the only advice he had for Tete was to contain the Japanese for three rounds only, then he will be home and dry.

"Their first round is like their last. They test you to the fullest, hoping to catch you cold," said Khanyile who moulded average fighter Thomas "Merciless" Mashaba into a feared champion.

Trainer Mhikiza Myekeni said their preparations were going smoothly.

"We are fortunate to have a left-handed sparring partner. The Japanese guy we are fighting is also a southpaw. We still have enough time to prepare but Zolani is already on top of his game," said the former fighter from Mdantsane.

Tete, 25, a gym fanatic, said he has been working out since January.

"Obviously I would take breaks in between but I can tell you now that I am fit," said the boxer.

"I have no doubt that I will win this upcoming fight."