Kevin Lerena ‘truly humbled’ by SA Sportsman of the Year Nomination ahead of Sun City gala

As a former world champion, it would be fitting if Kevin Lerena were crowned SA Sportsman of the Year, and ‘Two Guns’ has been reflecting on a monumental 2025 ahead of Sunday’s prestigious awards ceremony at Sun City.

“15 years of hard work, sacrifice, discipline, and dedication. Now a National Sportsman of the Year nominee, and I still feel like I have so much more to give,” Lerena shared on Facebook.

The nomination caps off an action-packed stretch for the 34-year-old power-puncher. In 2025, Lerena made history as the first South African boxer to successfully defend a WBC world championship, stopping Ukrainian Serhiy Radchenko in the third round of their bridgerweight clash before a roaring crowd of 7,600 fans in Pretoria.

Following that dominant defence, Lerena stepped up to the heavyweight ranks to face Lawrence Okolie for the WBC Silver Heavyweight title, ultimately dropping a competitive 10-round decision on points. Beyond his accomplishments inside the ring, Lerena made significant waves across the industry by co-launching Aquila Boxing Promotions (ABP), which staged four sold-out events broadcast live on SuperSport.

Now, the South African contender is focused on rebuilding following a frustrating setback in late May, when he lost his WBC bridgerweight title to Belgian rival Ryad Merhy.

That defeat prompted Lerena—who naturally walks around near 100kg—to make a definitive career shift: a return to the cruiserweight division and its strict 90.7kg limit.

Last week, Lerena confirmed his official comeback date for November 7 in Sandton. Hard at work in the gym and fully locked in on shedding the necessary weight, he recently posted a video detailing an energy-sapping 48-minute training session.

“Onwards & Upwards. 2025 was special—a year I’ll never forget,” said Lerena.

“Heading into this weekend and the South African Sports Awards, I’m truly humbled by the nomination and proud of how far I’ve come. Once again, thank you to everyone who has stood by me & supported me. The journey is far from finished. 15 years deep—still hungry & still chasing greatness. Let’s go.”

@Michael_Sherman

IOL Sport