Golden Gloves plans to tap into next generation of boxers

Speaking exclusively to SABC Sport at the Brian Mitchell’s Boxing Academy in Edenvale, the former World Champion says it’s all about close mentorship.

"Golden Gloves Foundation is all about giving youngsters the opportunity. It's a non-profit organsisation so we are going to go out there, we're going to get youngsters to join us and we're going to teach them — mentor them — life skills, boxing skills, dedication, discipline, and what it takes to make it in life," said Mitchell

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"Hopefully there will be some young guys that can come through from grassroots level, underprivileged guys specifically. We're reaching out to them. We're going to give them the opportunity to make it. Either as an amateur boxer to start or to become a professional boxer and a champion boxer one day."

"And it's all about those skills we want to offer them. And we're open now, the website's out there, the Golden Gloves website — so reach out to us."

Mitchell together with trainer Manny Fernandes, oversee a number of champions and rising stars in their gym, the likes of which include the Malajika brothers, Ndabezinhle Phiri, Ethan Peters and more.

The former fighter turned broadcaster revealed that the foundation plans to open a gym in the South of Johannesburg and really urges people who believe they have what it takes to grab this opportunity with both hands. 

Assisting Mitchell in this new endeavour is Golden Gloves Director and the founding member of the foundation, Nivi Grogor.

With Grogor’s background in business and digital innovation, and Mitchell’s practical experience of the local fight game, the Golden Gloves Foundation is set to deliver knockout results.