The South African boxer could become only the third fighter from the country to win the World Boxing Council minimumweight belt when he faces Melvin Jerusalem in Johannesburg.
Johannesburg, South Africa (03 March 2026) – South African boxer Siya Kuse is on the brink of history as he prepares to challenge Melvin Jerusalem for the World Boxing Council (WBC) minimumweight world title on 16 May in Johannesburg.
If successful, he will become only the third South African in history to win the prestigious WBC green belt inside the ring. This is one of the most difficult achievements in professional boxing.
Only two South Africans have previously reached that milestone. Sugarboy Malinga famously defeated Nigel Benn in Manchester in one of the country’s most memorable international victories, while Dingaan “The Rose of Soweto” Thobela produced a dramatic late stoppage against Glenn Catley to secure his title in a thrilling finish.
Siya has the opportunity to join that exclusive list.
The upcoming bout also offers redemption. The two fighters previously met in the Philippines last year in a closely contested encounter. Siya now gets a second opportunity, this time on home soil. To challenge the reigning champion.
His opponent, one of the Philippines’ leading boxing talents, will be defending his title in South Africa, fully aware of the threat Siya poses.
The event is promoted by Golden Gloves, one of Africa’s leading boxing promoters. Bringing a reigning world champion to South Africa is considered a significant achievement for the local boxing scene.
Hosting a world title bout of this calibre provides local fans with the opportunity to witness a championship contest on home soil.
For Siya, this victory would not only secure him a world title, but place his name alongside two of South Africa’s most respected boxing champions.
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Sources: Supplied
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