By Linda Ximba |
Mauricio Sulaimán, one of the most influential figures in global boxing, is set to visit South Africa for the first time in two months.
The World Boxing Council (WBC) president from Mexico City, Mexico, will attend a highly anticipated world title bout as the guest of honour of Rodney Berman, managing director of Golden Gloves Promotions.
The visit will coincide with a major championship rematch between South Africa’s Siyakholwa Kuse and reigning WBC minimumweight champion Melvin Jerusalem of the Philippines. The bout is scheduled for Saturday, 16 May at Emperors Palace in Kempton Park, Ekurhuleni.
Kuse, who hails from Mdantsane in the Eastern Cape, will be looking to reclaim the WBC minimumweight crown in what is expected to be a thrilling rematch against Jerusalem, widely known by his ring nickname “El Gringo”.
Speaking ahead of the trip, the 56-year-old Sulaimán expressed excitement about his upcoming visit.
“Very much looking forward to visiting South Africa for the first time,” he said.
Sulaimán has served as WBC president for more than 12 years after succeeding his father, José Sulaimán, who led the organisation for nearly four decades before his death in January 2014. Prior to assuming the presidency, Mauricio served as the WBC’s secretary-general, continuing a family legacy deeply rooted in international boxing governance.
