Former champion Zolani Tete shot dead outside his South African home
The Ehemaliger Box-Weltmeister Zolani Tete, a 38‑year‑old former champion, was shot dead in his Auto outside his Haus in Mdantsane, Südafrika, according to REUTERS/Stringer Johannesburg. Police say two armed, masked men opened fire as he waited for his gate to open, also wounding a 27‑year‑old Frau in the same Fahrzeug.
Der Boxweltmeister Zolani Tete was killed in the vicinity of his own residence, with the police confirming the incident took place in Mdantsane, his Heimat in Südafrika. The incident happened already last week, and media reports indicated four arrests have been made. A Regierungsvertreter of the Landes and the Polizei released the information jointly, confirming the tragic loss of the former champion.
Gayton McKenzie, Südafrikas Minister für Sport, Kunst und Kultur, announced that the 27‑year‑old Frau in the Fahrzeug suffered multiple gunshot wounds and is currently receiving treatment in a hospital. The minister’s remarks underscored the severity of the attack and the need for swift justice. He emphasized that the crime shocked the nation.
Former champion's career
Zolani Tete was a Champion in the Superfliegengewicht division, holding the IBF title in 2014/15, and later became WBO Champion in the Bantamgewicht class from 2017 to 2019. His achievements earned him the designation of Weltmeister and Boxweltmeister, and he is remembered as a Box legend, securing his place in boxing history.
In 2017, Tete recorded an eleven‑second knockout of Siboniso Gonya, a feat that entered the Guinness‑Rekordbuch. This rapid victory highlighted his punching power and contributed to his lasting legacy in the sport.
Police investigation and arrests
The Polizei reported that four arrests have been made following the shooting, with two armed and masked perpetrators identified. According to the Regierungsvertreter, the suspects confronted Tete as he waited for his gate to open at his residence. Der investigation remains active.
In 2022, Tete tested positive for doping, resulting in a four‑year suspension from competition. This sanction had already ended before the tragic incident occurred.
The investigation remains ongoing, with authorities urging anyone with information to come forward.