Johannesburg – Golden Gloves prophetically called their boxing promotion on Saturday night the Damocles bill – and the thread holding what was a veritable Sword of Damocles hanging over the distinguished boxing career of Zolani “The Untouchable” Marali duly snapped with sudden and devastating effect in the fourth round of his fight for the vacant IBO title against Mlungisi Dlamini at Emperors Palace.

The unbeaten Durban-based fighter, who is aptly known as “The Shark” for his ability to strike with lethal effect when least expected, had Marali stumbling to the canvas for the count of 10 following a lethal right cross – this in spite of the fact that Dlamini had been comprehensively outboxed by his more skilful opponent in all four rounds up to that stage.

And with Marali having also been knocked out in his last fight for the IBO junior lightweight title, it would seem the 34-year-old craftsman, who has enjoyed much success in the ring, needs a lengthy break as a matter of urgency – if not deciding to hang up his gloves permanently. – Sapa