Makhosi pays tribute to Baby Jake
Makhosi Khoza has paid tribute to boxing legend Jacob “Baby Jake” Matlala during his show The Work Zone on East Coast Radio.
The former world champion, who held four world titles in two different weight divisions, passed away on Saturday after a long illness.
Matlala retired in 2002 after 53 fights of which he won 38. He will be buried on Friday.
The former World Boxing Champion Union (WBU) and International Boxing Association (IBA) champion was admitted to hospital on numerous occasions over the past few years with complications related to pneumonia.
Baby Jake began his professional career at the age of 18 and was the shortest world champion.
He ended his career after having won four world titles.
After his final fight in 2002, he presented his world title belt to former President Nelson Mandela as a token of appreciation.
He is survived by his wife, Mapula and his two sons, Tshepo and Masego.
Not only did Matla excel as a sportsman, he also excelled academically.
The late boxer had a B. Com degree from Unisa.
Makhosi said Matlala was a giant of a man and who will always be remembered as a symbol of reconciliation in post-apartheid South Africa.
He recapped Baby Jake’s life’s message in his own words.
Click on the link below to listen.
- Phumlani Dube (The Work Zone producer
(Photo: Gallo Images)