By Boxing Bob Newman
Former two-time champ Zolani Tete Was killed today outside his home in Mdantsane, Eastern Cape, South Africa.
According to SABC Sport in South Africa, Tete was arriving home from the gym around 6:30 local time. He pulled up to his gated home with a female passenger. While waiting for the gate to open, another car occupied by two masked gunmen, pulled up and opened fire. Tete had tried to drive into his yard in an attempt to escape the shooting. He succumbed to his injuries. No word on the female passenger’s condition.
Tete traveled to Japan in 2014 and captured the IBF Jr. Bantamweight crown by defeating Teiru Kinoshita by decision. In 2017 he captured the interim WBO Bantamweight title decisioning Arthur Villanueva. He was then elevated to full WBO champ, successfully defending the title three times before losing via TKO3 to Filipino John Riel Casimero in 2019.
Tete was planning a ring return in November. The 38 year old Tete had a record of 29-4, 22 knockouts. Fightnews.com sends condolences to his family. Rest in Peace Champ.
SABC New Report on Tete’s passing
