By Mesuli Zifo
Tshepang Mohale scored a scintillating third round knockout of Johnny Muller to capture the South African light heavyweight title at Emperors Palace in Johannesburg, South Africa on Saturday night.
While he was celebrating his stunning win over the previously unbeaten champion police pounced and arrested him for possession of stolen cell phone.
His manager Peter Smith who watched the drama unfold as police apprehended his charge, said Mohale bought the stolen phone from someone.
With still in his fighting regalia, Mohale quickly changed to his clothes as police were hovering over him while the police van waited outside the venue.
The news quickly spread into the packed venue with fight promoter Rodney Berman describing it as an embarrassment to his tournament.
“This is so unexpected and to happen just after he had won the most important bout of his career is equally disappointing,” Berman said.
Mohale was the first fighter to inflict a loss to Muller who came to the fight spotting nine wins, seven by stoppages and two draws.
It was not clear when Mohale (8-3, 7 Kos) will be released as Smith said the whole episode took everyone by surprise.
But he spent the best moment of his life behind the cells.