The World Boxing Federation is delighted with the on-going contribution of its former world heavyweight champion Francois ‘White Buffalo’ Botha, because while Botha is in training and will be ready for a major fight in October, he has taken out a license as a promoter in order to ensure development within South Africa’s boxing community.
Botha, who was leading on points when stopped in the eighth round by Evander Holyfield earlier this year, has vowed to win back his WBFed heavyweight title.
Fighters in Botha’s sight before a rematch with the ‘Real Deal’ include David Tua, Shannon Briggs and Hasim Rahman.
A tremendously talented fighter, Botha, who in his career has not always dedicated himself fully, announced that he will be as fit as he has ever been as he continues his quest to regain the title.
At the same time, Botha wants to give back to boxing and without sponsors or television will be promoting his first show in Cape Town on Aug. 1. That show will include a WBFed All Africa cruiserweight championship between Alex Mbaya from the Congo, 11-2 (9), and Roland Francis, 24-11 (13). Boxing SA, as well as the WBFed are delighted to be gaining a new promoter with such a high profile. Howard Goldberg, president of the WBFed and himself based in Cape Town, said:
“It’s always entertaining when Francois is involved, be it as a fighter or now as a promoter. I have no doubt the fans will support such a charismatic personality.”
