Sea Point-based bantamweight returns home with WBC belt

Fuad Esack|Published

Khaya Mlata (black trunks with white trim) and Ardy Katompa. originally from the DRC and now living in Johannesburg, exchange blows during their eight round clash for the WBC World Youth Bantamweight title, Emperors Palace, a fortnight ago.

Image: Yolanda van der Stoep

Sea Point-based Khaya Mlata, from Khayelitsha, went toe-to-toe with the DRC-born, Ardy Katompa, currently residing in Johannesburg, on the undercard of the “Destiny’s Decree” Box and Dine Tournament, at Emperor’s Palace Centre Court. As expected, there was plenty of fireworks in this eight-round clash for the WBC World Youth Bantamweight title. It was a closely fought battle that went the distance, with the Capetonian Mlata getting the split points decision to go home with the belt. The judges scored the fight 73-77, 76-75, and 76-75.

Newly-crowned WBC World Youth Bantamweight champion, Khaya Mlata, right, during his title fight against the DRC's Ardy Katompa, Emperors Palace, in Johannesburg, a fortnight ago.

Image: Yolanda van der Stoep