The international boxing community is grieving the loss of former two-weight world champion Zolani “Last Born” Tete, who was killed in a shooting outside his home in Mdantsane, Eastern Cape, South Africa, on Friday evening, August 21, 2026.
Tete, 38, was confirmed dead following the attack, with South African officials and his manager confirming the news. His death has sparked widespread sadness among boxing supporters, sports personalities and members of the community where he was raised.
Reports indicate that Tete was sitting in his vehicle outside his residence when two armed assailants reportedly approached the area. The men, who were said to be wearing balaclavas, opened fire while Tete was waiting for his home’s entrance gate to open. He sustained multiple gunshot wounds and died as a result of the attack.
A 27-year-old woman who was accompanying the boxer was also wounded in the shooting. She was transported to a hospital for medical attention and was reported to remain under treatment. Police have opened an investigation into the incident, although the reason behind the attack remains unknown.
The news of Tete’s death prompted tributes across South Africa and from the wider boxing world. Many remembered him for his accomplishments as a professional fighter, his contribution to the sport and his influence on aspiring athletes in Mdantsane and the broader Eastern Cape.
Eastern Cape Premier Oscar Mabuyane paid tribute to the former champion, recognizing him as a major sporting figure from the province. Buffalo City Metro Mayor Princess Faku also honored Tete, emphasizing the inspiration his achievements provided to young people in the region.
Tete enjoyed a highly successful professional career after making his debut in boxing. He captured the IBF junior-bantamweight championship in 2014 before moving on to win the WBO bantamweight title. His accomplishments helped establish him as one of South Africa’s prominent boxing champions.
Among the most memorable highlights of his career was his 2017 victory over Siboniso Gonya in Belfast. Tete stopped his opponent in only 11 seconds, producing what was recognized as the fastest knockout in a world title fight. The remarkable finish became one of the defining moments of his career.
His journey in boxing also included significant challenges. Tete had been working toward a return to professional competition after serving a lengthy suspension connected to an anti-doping violation. His death has therefore brought an abrupt end to a career that had included both major championship successes and difficult periods.
South Africa’s Sports, Arts and Culture Minister Gayton McKenzie also expressed condolences following the former champion’s death. Officials have urged the public to allow investigators to establish the circumstances surrounding the shooting as police continue their work.
Beyond his achievements inside the ring, Tete was remembered for the pride he brought to Mdantsane and the Eastern Cape. His rise from the community to the international boxing stage made him an important figure for young athletes hoping to pursue careers in the sport.
As the investigation continues, tributes are expected to remain focused on Tete’s contribution to boxing and the legacy he leaves behind. His championship accomplishments, record-setting knockout and connection to his hometown have cemented his place in South African boxing history.
The sudden death of Tete at 38 has left supporters and fellow fighters mourning a former world champion whose career brought recognition to his community and country. His passing marks a profound loss for South African boxing and the many people who followed his journey from Mdantsane to the world stage.