Former World Boxing Federation (WBF) champion Unathi Myekeni passed away on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, at the age of 44 after a prolonged battle with cancer. The South African boxing community is mourning the loss of the Pumlani township native, who was a foundational pioneer for women’s professional boxing in the country since 2006.
Who was the “Showtime” pioneer Unathi Myekeni?
Unathi Myekeni was a trailblazing figure in South African sports, turning professional in 2006 during the first wave of sanctioned female boxing. Influenced by her brother, the late IBO world junior flyweight champion Mhikiza “Showtime” Myekeni, she adopted his famous moniker and carved out her own decorated legacy in the junior featherweight and featherweight divisions.
Her career was marked by extraordinary grit; she famously balanced her world-class athletic pursuits with a physically demanding job at the mines in North West Province. Her manager, Mla (Mlandeli) Tengimfene, noted that she would secure specific leave from the mines to return to the gym and prepare for her title defenses, embodying a work ethic that defined the Mdantsane boxing era.
What were her major career achievements?
Myekeni reached the pinnacle of the sport by capturing the WBF featherweight world title. She was known for her technical skill and durability, participating in some of the most historic female bouts held on South African soil.
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World Title Success: She secured the WBF belt from Asandiswa Nxokwana and remained a dominant force in the Eastern Cape boxing scene for over a decade.
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A Historic Rivalry: In March 2019, she faced Nozipho Bell in Gqeberha in what was described as one of the most fiercely contested female bouts in national history, eventually surrendering her title on points.
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Final Ring Appearance: She retired with a professional record of 12 wins, 5 losses, and 1 draw, ending her career with a victory over Malawian fighter Enelless Nkhwanthi.
How did cancer impact the Myekeni family?
The passing of Unathi Myekeni marks a tragic final chapter for a legendary boxing family. Her brother, Mhikiza Myekeni, also succumbed to cancer in August 2022, after his own championship career was prematurely ended by a severe car accident.
Lungiswa Ntontela, a close friend and contemporary at the Welcome Ncita Boxing Club, stated that the death of Unathi is a massive blow to the sport. Along with peers like Noni Tenge, Myekeni is credited with fighting for equal pay and recognition, ensuring that the current generation of South African women boxers can compete on a professional stage.
What are the current funeral arrangements?
Unathi Myekeni passed away in Carletonville following a long illness that she had largely kept private from the broader boxing fraternity. While the news has sent shockwaves through KuGompo City and the Eastern Cape, official funeral arrangements are currently being finalized by the family and will be announced to the public in due course.
