Former world boxing champion Zolani “Last Born” Tete was shot dead outside his home in South Africa. Police and Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie confirmed the 38-year-old boxer’s death on Friday.
Tete was arriving at his residence in Mdantsane township when two armed men approached. The attackers wore balaclavas and opened fire before fleeing the scene.
A 27-year-old woman travelling with Tete also suffered multiple gunshot wounds. Authorities took her to hospital as police launched an investigation into the deadly attack.
Police Investigate Former Champion’s Killing
Police have not established a motive for the shooting. Meanwhile, Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie urged caution and said he would not speculate about those responsible.
Tete’s killing has renewed concerns about violent crime across South Africa. The country continues to record one of the world’s highest murder rates despite recent declines in homicides.
The death has also deeply affected Mdantsane, which has produced several successful South African boxers. Tete became one of the township’s most prominent sporting figures through his international achievements.
Tete Built Celebrated Boxing Career
Tete captured the IBF junior-bantamweight world title in 2014. He defeated Japan’s Teiru Kinoshita in Kobe to claim his first major world championship.
The South African later won the WBO bantamweight title during his successful professional career. However, his most memorable performance came in Belfast in November 2017.
Tete knocked out fellow South African Siboniso Gonya after just 11 seconds. The victory became the fastest stoppage in a world title fight.
His death has therefore shocked the boxing community and his hometown. As investigations continue, authorities have yet to identify the attackers or establish their motive.
