Johannesburg - The death of four-time world boxing champion Jacob “Baby Jake” Matlala has shocked the National Freedom Party, party leader Zanele KaMagwaza Msibi said on Saturday.
“While the nation was still mourning the death of international icon and the father of the nation Dr Nelson Mandela, we were saddened to learn about the death of Matlala,” she said.
“My condolences go to his wife Mapule, his children and the rest of the Matlala family. We thank him for flying the South African flag high in the boxing arena and may his soul rest in peace.”
The Pan Africanist Congress said Matlala had made the nation proud.
“Baby Jake made the nation proud with his boxing feats during the time of repression of our people. Surely, our country needs such champions as we reconstruct our land,” said spokesman Lehlohonolo Shale.
“The PAC sends its condolences to the Matlala family and the sporting fraternity in general on the loss of their loved one, Baby Jake Matlala.” - Sapa