Pretoria – In less than three weeks, South African Kevin the “KO King” Lerena will defend his WBC Bridgerweight (90.7 kg to 101.6 kg) World Championship on home soil for the first time.
The KO King will step into the ring to defend his WBC Bridgerweight (90.7 kg to 101.6 kg) World Championship against Ukrainian powerhouse contender Serhii Radchenko at Pretoria’s Time Square, SunBet Arena on Thursday, (1 May 2025).
Lerena is no stranger to taking down giants, and under the lights of SunBet Arena, he’ll be ready to prove once again why he’s South Africa’s ultimate fighting force.
Speaking on his title defence Lerena says: “It’s an incredible feeling to defend the WBC World Title on home soil.
“Being the first to do so in South African history makes it even more special, and becoming only the third-ever WBC champion is a huge honour.
“To be able to do it in front of my home fans and my loyal Lerena Army is truly special, and it’s an honour to make history with them.”
Lerena claimed the interim title in November 2023 with a unanimous decision over Senad Gashi and was elevated to full champion in October 2024 when Lawrence Okolie moved up to heavyweight.
The Bridgerweight division, originally created by the WBC and later adopted by the WBA, sits between cruiserweight and heavyweight with a 224 lb limit.
Radchenko (11-7, 5 KOs), ranked fifth in the division, comes into the fight on a four-fight win streak, having recently outpointed 15-2-1 Andrej Pesic in Kiev.
At 37, Lerena aims to cause an upset in what promises to be a thrilling clash.
The card will feature international opponents and world title defences, where elite fighters showcase their skills.
Beyond the ring, guests will enjoy live music performances and world-class hospitality.
To witness the action in true championship style, Sunbet’s VVIP and VIP packages deliver front-row intensity, exclusive hospitality, and an electrifying fight-night experience like no other.
The monumental event has the full backing of Boxing South Africa (BSA).
The press conference on 31 March 2025, to announce the historic bout was attended by Gideon Mann, COO of Sunbet, Dewald Mostert, CEO of Legacy Boxing Promotions, CEO of BSA Mandla Ntlanganiso, Lerena, as well as fellow undercard boxers Thabiso Mchunu, Chris Thompson, Lindo Khuzwayo, Tietsetso Matikinca.
The event underscored the strong support and collaboration from all corners of the boxing world to bring “The Reckoning” to life.
Sunbet, a leader in South Africa’s sports betting and entertainment industry, has long supported local sporting initiatives.
The multiple-partner involvement in “The Reckoning” underscores a commitment to investing in boxing, providing a platform for local talent while creating new opportunities for fighters and fans.
Beyond sponsorship, Sunbet’s partnership with Legacy Boxing Promotions reflects a long-term dedication to growing South African boxing and restoring its prominence in the market.
Simon Gregory, CEO of Sunbet, shared the vision behind the partnership, “It’s time to take boxing back to the top.
“We are excited to be a part of an event that we hope is just the first step in a new era for one of South Africa’s favourite pastimes.
“South Africa has such a rich history in the sport, from Presidents to past champions, that boxing is in the fabric of what makes this country great.
“That made the decision to become a title sponsor for ‘The Reckoning’ with the team at Legacy Boxing Promotions an easy one.
“We are committed to investing in the future of South African boxing, with this event serving as a platform for rising stars and seasoned fighters alike.
“With a full fight card and a world title on the line, the 1st May event promises to be an exceptional night, but it is also the beginning of something bigger – the reinvigoration of boxing in South Africa.”
Gideon Mann, COO of Sunbet stated: “I’ve always loved boxing, it’s in my blood. Some of my fondest memories are sitting between my father and grandfather, eyes glued to the screen, watching legends trade blows.
“To now play a part, alongside the incredible teams at Sunbet and Legacy, in bringing a WBC title fight back to South African soil feels like a dream.
“This is more than just a bout; it’s a revival of a proud tradition, a moment of national pride, and a heartfelt nod to where our passion began – from Baby Jake and Brian Mitchell to that iconic image of Mandela, gloves raised, embodying the fighting spirit of a nation.”
Legacy Boxing Promotions’ Dewald Mostert said: “The Reckoning” is a defining milestone for us.
“It represents everything we believe in – excellence, purpose, and national pride.
“This event marks the first time a WBC world title will be defended on South African soil, and that alone makes it historic.
“But beyond the title, it’s about creating legacy moments.
“South Africa has produced world champions across generations, and this is about reigniting that legacy.
“With the event’s stacked fight card and the exposure, it brings to both African and international talent, we’re showing the world that South Africa is ready to host elite boxing.
“For us, it’s not just about putting on a show – it’s about telling South Africa’s boxing story and building a future that lasts.”
The gloves are on.
The stage is set. And history is about to be made.
The Reckoning Fight Card
The action-packed card kicks off with rising talent on the Day Card in matchups like Jabulani Makhence vs. Antonio Maiala and Gary van Staden vs. Seth van Asweging, setting the stage for an explosive Main Card.
Main Event (12 Rounds – WBC World Bridgerweight Title): Kevin Lerena (33–30W–3L) vs. Serhiy Radchenko (18–11W–7L)
Co-Main Event (10 Rounds – Welterweight): Tulz Mbenge (23–21W–2L) vs. Emmanuel Mungandjela (25–20W–4L–1D)
Undercard Fights:
- Thabiso Mchunu vs. Amandor Kalonji (Cruiserweight)
- Chris Thompson vs. Mussa Ajibu (Heavyweight)
- Lindo Khuzwayo vs. Sthembiso Maduna (Featherweight)
- Tietsetso Matikinca vs. Mbulelo Gubula (Bantamweight)
Event Details:
- Date: Thursday, 1 May 2025
- Time: 19h00
- Cost: Tickets are R400 and R800 per person and are available via TicketPro
- Venue: SunBet Arena, Time Square
- Menlyn Maine, Aramist Avenue 209, Menlyn, Pretoria
