The boxing world is in mourning following the demise of Jan Kies, one of the last surviving South African boxing icons. Kies died over the weekend at the age of 76 and will be remembered for his exciting exploits inside the ropes throughout the 1970s.
The southpaw dominated the ring and hearts of many South African boxing fans during his era. Kies pulled a fairytale record progression to become the South African middleweight champion and an East London cult hero.
He began his professional career on 31st March 1969, beating Herbie Blom on a sensational first-round knockout. He lost his first fight against Johnny Wood, but the 10 matches that followed were one of the best journeys seen on that side of the ring.
1972 was an unforgettable year for Kies, beating the likes of Jean Josselin, Harry Scott, Don McMillan, and Dominico Tiberia. He failed to capture the South African middleweight title on his first attempt after a loss to Dominic Germishuys. However, he got his revenge in their title rematch. Besides, Germishuis and Coert Fourie fell on the wayside as Kies continued to defend his title while on sensational form.
The southpaw’s career had its fair share of ups and downs, and after a defeat to Dave Rose and Maxie Smith and Dave Lumley, he took a break from boxing in 1977. But two comeback bouts later, he had broken Gerrie Bodenstein and Victor Ntloko. Kies is remembered as a warrior...a true champion.
Image Credit: DAZN