Loftus Versfeld turns into a BOXING ring as Jozi takes on Pitori in Jukskei derby
02/18/2025 10:58 AM
The second installment of the 2024/25 United Rugby Championship’s (URC) Gauteng derby brings boxing to the heart of one of rugby's fiercest rivalries.
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When the Bulls and the Lions meet on Saturday, 22 February, at Loftus Versfeld, many will rightfully expect a crunching battle between two proud South African teams with a lot to play for as the race to secure the best spot heading into the knockouts nears finality.
Equation is simple
The hosts from the capital city sit third on the log with 35 points whilst their visitors from downtown Jozi languish in 12th position with a game in hand, four points behind the Scarlets, who currently occupy the eighth and final playoff spot.
The mathematical equation is simple: four to five points on offer will be monumental for both teams from a log and conference perspective.
That sets up a tantalising ’bout’ on the cards for fans, and tickets to the #fightnight start from R65 and can be purchased from TicketPro.
Loftus Versfeld boxing card
When the rugby is done and dusted, the battle for bragging rights and more will continue, except this time, it will all be inside the boxing ring, where the best Joburg has to offer will go up against Pitori's finest.
The full boxing card includes seven exhibition bouts between Luke Ackers and Jaden Mraz, Frikkie van Jaarsveld and Katleho Sauli, Pascal Alanga and Thabo Agbenafa, and Gideon Visser against Kyle Sham.
That action will be followed by the battle of the MC's where the Bulls' Mack Rapapali takes on Wesley Gabriels of the Lions followed by boxing legend Sebastian Rothman against Shadow Shabane as the prelude to the main event.
That main event will see Bulls legend Lionel Mapoe taking on former Lions team-mate Marnitz Boshoff in a three-round pound-for-pound square off.
There will also be LIVE musical entertainment from Desmond and the Tutus, DJ Vin Deysel, Thabiso Khambule and the Martin Bester Band, all performing at the infamous Loftus D-Market, which also features a kiddie's entertainment area to provide an afternoon of fun for the whole family.
Gates will open at 11:00, and your match ticket gives you access to all the action – rugby and boxing – at Loftus Versfeld.
Are you more interested in the rugby – or the boxing?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1
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