Speaking to Channel Africa’s Babazile Makhubalo on Sunday, Berman said the event promises “thrill‑a‑minute boxing” and could reshape the future of the sport.
The two finalists each earned $17 440 in eliminators, meaning the winner will take home $41 854 and become a millionaire overnight, while the runner‑up will leave with close to $46 504 “It is the biggest prize money ever offered for a domestic title fight,” Berman said. “The winner secures a very bright future. For the loser, it is a long climb back.”
Adding to the night’s significance is a rare family clash on the undercard, with first cousins Brian and Gerard Tazer meeting for the SA light‑heavyweight title. Berman noted that the last time first cousins fought in SA was decades ago. “We have three Tazers on the bill. It is extraordinary,” he said.
Berman stressed that financial investment in boxing remains risky. “Sometimes it is not an investment; you can lose a lot of money,” he said. “But promoters take these risks hoping a fighter eventually reaches world‑title level.”
Golden Gloves is undergoing a strategic shift under new Co‑Owner Nivi Grogo, whose expertise in digital media is set to broaden the stable’s reach. Berman said 2026 will mark “the year of the heavyweights,” with three promising African contenders featured on the card.
The event will also showcase rising talent such as Monica Mkandla and Eastern Cape prospect Sineli Sokwai. “We try to give youngsters every opportunity on major platforms,” Berman said, adding that lack of exposure remains a major challenge for SA boxing. “There is outstanding talent in places like the Eastern Cape and Limpopo that never gets seen.”
Berman confirmed that Golden Gloves will stage a WBC world title fight on May 16, headlined by Sibusiso “Sia” Kusi, who narrowly lost to a world champion last year. Ricardo Malajika is also set for a world‑title eliminator in July.
On women’s boxing, Berman admitted his views had evolved. “Old horses must move with the times,” he said, highlighting promising fighters in the Golden Gloves stable.
As for the message to fans, Berman said: “Expect fireworks. Tazer and Knapp have fought twice, both great battles. This final will be something special.”
–ChannelAfrica–
