From Mandela pep talks to world titles: Veteran boxing promoter Rodney Berman’s golden legacy

947’s Robert Marawa speaks with legendary boxing promoter Rodney Berman.

Listen below:

At 81, Berman has a rich history with boxing and remains widely regarded as one of South Africa’s top all-time boxing promoters. 

The qualified attorney has been in the fight game since 1977 and has been involved in the promotion of over 2,000 fighters.

He recalls two of his most memorable fights: Welcome Ncita securing the junior featherweight world title in 1992, and Vuyani Bungu bringing it back to South Africa in 1995.

Bungu delivered one of the biggest upsets in boxing history against unbeaten Olympic champion Kennedy McKinney for the junior featherweight world title. 

He went on to defend the title 13 times. 

Berman reveals Bungu got a pre-match pep talk from former President Nelson Mandela.

“[Mandela’s] talk to Vuyani, in my mind, was one of the motivating factors that helped him rise unbelievably… that was the greatest win ever by a South African in a South African ring.” 

– Rodney Berman, veteran boxing promoter

Berman has been working hard to get Bungu and the late Mzi Mnguni inducted into the Hall of Fame. 

Fast forward 48 years, and Berman shows no signs of slowing down. 

Today, he continues his work, contributing to the sport from outside the ring through his company, Golden Gloves. 

“It’s been my life… I’ve had the most incredible life. I am forever grateful and thankful…”

– Rodney Berman, veteran boxing promoter