Famous rapper Big Zulu is crying foul after he lost an exhibition fight against Pietermaritzburg-based businessman Phumlani Njilo.
The hyped-up celebrity boxing match, aptly dubbed Impi: The War, was staged at the Olive Convention Centre in Durban on Saturday.
The bout drew a decent crowd that included artists like DJ Tira, Zakwe, Hlengiwe Mhlaba and comedians.
Before the fight go under way, Big Zulu, born Siyabonga Nene, predicted that he would knock Njilo out before the fourth round, a statement that sparked interest among entertainment and boxing fans.
The prediction irked Njilo and galvanised him ahead of their bout.
It became clear that he had come up with a strategy to frustrate Big Zulu by running around the ring, throwing a few punches here and there, and holding on to his hefty opponent.
Referee Sipho Zondo could have done better to caution Njilo, as his antics broke the fight’s momentum and raised allegations of cheating.
After the outcome, Big Zulu did not hide his frustration.
Fight against Nyovest in the pipeline
“Maybe I don’t know boxing rules but this guy stamped on my feet many times and he was not cautioned,” said Big Zulu.
“I could not land my punches properly. Anyway, congratulations to him because clearly his strategy to frustrate me worked for him.”
The 30-year-old Njilo, who is the CEO of Induduzo Bespoke Funerals and is brother to Nzuzo Njilo, Faith Nketsi’s estranged husband, was happy to bury Big Zulu in the ring.
“Big Zulu gave me a tough fight and is an amazing human being. Now I am looking forward to another bout with another celebrity,” Njilo said.
Dr Hlula Dladla, the promoter for Hlula Dladla Promotions, announced that Big Zulu’s next fight will be against Cassper Nyovest, leading to the crowd going wild in excitement.
Nyovest, born Refiloe Maele Phoolo, has so far fought against YouTuber Slik Talk, actor and musician NaakMusiQ, and Priddy Ugly.
- Linda Ximba
