Former two-time world boxing champion Zolani “Last Born” Tete has reportedly been shot and killed outside his home in Mdantsane in the Eastern Cape, leaving South Africa’s boxing community mourning the loss of one of its most accomplished fighters.
The 38-year-old boxer was reportedly attacked while sitting inside his vehicle and waiting for his residential gate to open. According to reports, two masked gunmen approached him and opened fire before fleeing the scene.
Tete was reportedly not alone at the time of the shooting. A 27-year-old woman who was travelling with him was also struck by multiple bullets during the attack. She was rushed to hospital, where she is receiving medical treatment. Her current condition has not been fully disclosed.
The shocking incident has raised concerns about violent crime in the area, while police have begun investigating the circumstances surrounding the former champion’s death.
Authorities have yet to establish a clear motive for the shooting. The identities and whereabouts of the alleged attackers also remain unknown, and investigators are expected to gather evidence and speak to potential witnesses as they work to establish exactly what happened.
Tete’s death is a major loss to South African boxing. Born and raised in the Eastern Cape, he built an impressive professional career and became a world champion in two different weight divisions.
The boxer gained international recognition for his speed, power and technical ability. One of the defining moments of his career came in 2017 when he recorded one of the fastest knockouts in professional boxing history.
Tete stopped his opponent in just 11 seconds during a world title fight, earning a Guinness World Record for the fastest knockout in a world title bout. The remarkable achievement cemented his reputation as one of the most dangerous punchers in the sport.
Beyond his achievements inside the ring, Tete was regarded as an important figure in South African boxing and inspired many young fighters who dreamed of reaching the highest levels of the sport.
News of his reported death has sparked an outpouring of grief among boxing fans and supporters, with many remembering him for his achievements and contribution to the sport.
The circumstances surrounding the shooting remain under investigation, and police are expected to provide further information as the case develops.
Tete’s death also highlights the devastating impact of gun violence, particularly when individuals are targeted in public or residential areas.
As investigations continue, questions remain about who carried out the attack and why the former world champion was targeted.
For now, South African boxing is left to mourn the loss of Zolani “Last Born” Tete, a fighter whose achievements placed his name among the country’s notable boxing champions.
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