A disturbing scene played out in a boxing ring in Durban, South Africa.
Previously unbeaten fighter Simiso Buthelezi (4-1) took on Siphesihle Mntungwa (7-1-2) for the WBF African Lightweight title. In the bout’s final round, an exchange between the pugilists ended Mntungwa failing through the ropes. After the fight was resumed, Buthelezi began throwing punches- but not at his opponent. In a strange and unnerving turn of events, Buthelezi turned from Mntungwa and tried to fight an adversary who was not there, as he unleashed several punches that only found air.
To his credit, the referee quickly stepped in and stoped the fight and Mntungwa was awarded the decision.
Boxeo adds that Buthelezi was likely headed for a decision ,(though the outcome of the bout pales in comparison to the health and safety of one of the fighters) and that he is currently in South Africa in stable condition. A cause of what caused those those chilling event will be determined over the course of the next few days.
