Supporters from Manenberg came out in their numbers to witness one of their own crowned the new World Boxing Federation’s All Africa welterweight champion, in Sunningdale, last Friday night.
Organised by Jackie Brice Boxing Promotions, sanctioned by Boxing South Africa, Wasim “Kleuring” Chellan went to war for 10 rounds to beat Pretoria’s Lybon Ntshani, by a unanimous points’ decision, at the sports complex.
“Their voices, spirits, passion and support pulled me through, the more they shouted the more I had to give; letting them down by not giving my all wouldn’t have done justice. My trainer Emil Brice kept me hungry and eager in between rounds, asking me questions and seeing how I react. That was brilliant as he knew where my head was at,” Chellan said.
“Truthfully, I wanted to knock him out and make an even bigger statement, although going 10 rounds against him was by far the best and most enjoyable fight I’ve ever had. The back and forth war, none wanted to give in, so giving up was not an option. When he gave, I had to give back to ensure I became champion,” he said.
While making it seven wins in seven fights, Chellan said the preparations was a result of a good camp at the Brice Boxing Academy in Ottery. At the gym, he spars with national and international champions, including the South Africa Super Featherweight champion Lunga Sitemela, and WBF International Flyweight champion Daniel Pontack.
Ahead of the fight, Chellan looked relaxed in the changing room, alongside his trainers, Emil Brice, Allan Dillon and teammates, Tony Mayala and Jimmy Mabundji.
Chellan is now gunning for more international fights in his division.
“Wherever you may find yourself, know that you have the power to change your circumstances, you don’t always have to follow the crowd or entertain your peeps. Don’t have FOMO (fear of missing out). Don’t be pressured into things where you’re not happy. Strive for better regardless of your current situation,” he said.
“I am hoping and praying that I could be more active, perhaps the South African Welterweight title or maybe test the waters with some international fights such as the WBF International or Inter-continental, the goal is to become world champion. I’m not targeting anyone in particular but if you’ve got a title Wasim “Kleuring” Chellan is coming,” he said.
