Zolani “Last Born” Tete, a former world boxing champion, has been shot dead outside his residence in South Africa’s Eastern Cape province.

The police confirmed that the 38-year-old boxer was shot dead by two men in balaclavas upon arriving at his house in the Mdantsane township, Eastern Cape province, on Friday.

A woman who was with Tete at the time was also shot multiple times but was taken to hospital for medical care.

The motive behind the killing of the boxer is yet to be ascertained, according to the police.

Tete’s killing further raises questions about widespread violence in South Africa despite the massive exodus of foreigners in recent months.

Data from South African authorities show that an average of 58 people were murdered in South Africa per day in the first four months of 2026.

About 5,181 people were killed within the period under review.

The father of the deceased expressed shock over the murder of his son as tributes continued to pour in.

South Africa’s Sports Minister, Gayton McKenzie, in a statement, said, “I will not ⁠speculate about who did this or why,” while mourning the deceased.

“Rest in peace, Zolani Tete,” DAZN posted on X. “The boxing world is mourning the loss of a true champion. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and everyone who loved him during this incredibly difficult time.”