Former world boxing champion, Dingaan Thobela popularly known as ‘The Rose of Soweto’ has died.
According to reports, he was found at his flat in Mayfair, Johannesburg on Monday after numerous calls were made to his cellphone which rang unanswered.
Tributes have been pouring in for Thobela who passed on at the age of 57.
Dingaan ‘The Rose of Soweto’ Thobela was a champion fighter who captured the hearts and soul of the nation. I am deeply saddened by his passing. My thoughts are with the Thobela family and the South African boxing fraternity. #RIPDingaanThobela@CyrilRamaphosa @SportArtsCultur pic.twitter.com/mqYyvChJSH
— Zizi Kodwa (@zizikodwa) April 30, 2024
The EFF extends condolences on the passing of this legendary and iconic boxer. A titan in the boxing world.
We are deeply saddened by the loss of this legend.
Rest in Revolutionary peace Rose of Soweto. #RIPDingaanThobela pic.twitter.com/SCBHpF1kt8
— Economic Freedom Fighters (@EFFSouthAfrica) April 30, 2024
Rest in Perfect Peace Dingaan Thobela!
Legends never Die 🕊️ 💫 pic.twitter.com/OdoPnAlUAq
— Tumi Sole (@tumisole) April 29, 2024
Good morning South Africa.
Saddened to hear about the passing of #TheRoseOfSoweto 🥊
With a heavy heart, condolences to the family and let the memories of Dingaan Thobela bring comfort.
May your soul rest in peace #RIPDingaanThobela the legend🤍 pic.twitter.com/z1AjVFlrTI
— South African Government (@GovernmentZA) April 30, 2024
#RIPDingaanThobela
Alele amaqhawe
💔💔💔💔💔 pic.twitter.com/nmQ2VXsRCB— Duma Mazibuko eMtshezi❤️ (@DumaMazibuko2) April 30, 2024
Thobela held three world titles in two weight divisions, the first two being the WBO and WBA belts in lightweight divisions won early in his career.
