Kevin Lerena sees SA Sports Awards nomination as a victory

The 34-year-old says winning the award would be special, but the recognition of his achievements means even more to him. 

Lerena has been nominated for Sportsman of the Year, alongside swimming sensation Pieter Coetze and rising golf star Christiaan Maas. 

Lerena says he feels honoured to be recognised, especially because he never imagined that his achievements would one day be celebrated on such a big stage.

Known as the “KO Kid”, Lerena is a former WBC bridgerweight champion. 

He has enjoyed an impressive period in his career and shared some of his biggest achievements over the past 12 months with SABC Sport.

"In 2025, I became the first South African to defend the WBC title, and I achieved that feat on home soil in front of 8000 fans which is more than when Lennox Lewis visited South Africa for his fight against Rahman. Then there's Aquila Boxing Promotions which has grown in strength and showcases some of the finest talent you'll see."

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Lerena knows that reaching the highest level in boxing requires a strong support system. 

He credits his wife, children, sponsors and everyone who has stood by him throughout his career for helping him achieve his goals.

"I've got a phenomenal wife and beautiful children, not to mention all the sponsors that have backed me throughout my career. They have allowed me to stay focused on being a professional athlete without having to worry about anything else except for my craft."

Boxing fans will have an opportunity to watch Lerena back in action at the Sandton Convention Centre in November. 

The champion is calling on South Africans to come out in numbers as he looks to create more history on home soil.