By Ronnie Nathanielsz
IBF junior lightweight champion Mzonke Fana has been named South Africa’s "Boxer of the Year" for 2007 in an awards ceremony held at the Sand du Plessis Hall in Blomfontein.
Well-known promoter Branco Milenkovic of Branco Sports Productions who often stages fights in South Africa featuring Filipino boxers was named "Promoter of the Year. Milenkovic is also the manager of Fana who won the IBF title from another South African Malcolm Klassen who at one time was being considered as a possible opponent of Filipino boxing icon Manny Pacquiao.
Fana, despite being knocked down twice and reeling across the ring in the final round, salvaged a split decision in a title eliminator against OPBF champion Randy Suico on May 28, 2004 in South Africa. Fana went on to fight Marco Antonio Barrera for the title and was demolished in two rounds.
A report from South Africa said Fana could not hide his joy over the award and promised to give his best in his upcoming title defense against Cassius Baloyi on April 12.
Fana said "come April you will see who Mzonke Fana is. It was a triple crown for Branco Milenkovic as Fana’s manager Zola Koti won the award for "Trainer of the Year."
