Thulani Malinga

Infobox Boxer


name=Thulani "Sugarboy" Malinga
realname=Thulani Malinga
nickname=Sugarboy
weight=Middleweight Light Heavyweight Super Middleweight
nationality=South African
birth_date=Birth date and age|1955|12|11|mf=y
birth_place=Ladysmith, South Africa
death_date|=
death_place|=
style= Orthodox
total=57
wins=44
height=5'9"
losses=13
draws=
no contests=
KO=19|

Thulani "Sugarboy" Malinga (born December 11, 1955 in Ladysmith, South Africa, was a professional boxer in the Super Middleweight (168lb) division, and was twice WBC super middleweight champion.

Professional career

Known as "Sugar Boy", Malinga turned pro in 1981 after compiling an amateur Record of 185-10, beginning his career with a first-round T.K.O. of Victor Zulu on August 8, 1981. Malinga held several championship titles during a twenty year career as a Middleweight, Super Middleweight, and Light Heavyweight, fighting memorable bouts against Nigel Benn, Chris Eubank, and Roy Jones Jr. among others.

In 1989 he got his first shot at a title, taking on IBF Super Middleweight Title holder Graciano Rocchigiani. Malinga lost a decision, and the next year took on Lindell Holmes again for the IBF Super Middleweight Title. He again lost via decision, and in 1992 got a shot at the WBO Super Middleweight Title against Chris Eubank, but Malinga was dropped in the 5th and lost a close decision. After many fights in his native South Africa, he landed another shot at the title, against long-reigning WBC Super Middleweight Title holder Nigel Benn. Malinga won a shocking decision upset, but lost the title in his first defense against Vincenzo Nardiello. He regained the belt in his next fight, a decision win over Robin Reid for the WBC Super Middleweight Title. Again, he lost the belt in his first defense, a decision loss to Richie Woodhall. He fought four more times, retiring after a suffering an eighth-round T.K.O. against Ole Klemetsen on January 14, 2000, finishing his career with 44 wins (20 by K.O.) and 13 losses.

Titles Held

*WBC Super Middleweight
*WBF Super Middleweight

External links

See also

* List of WBC world champions

External links

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