Kaizer Chiefs in its entirety would like to send their message of deepest and heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family and friends of the late former Boxing World Champion Jacob 'Baby Jake' Matlala.

'Baby Jake' as he was affectionately known in the sporting world held four titles and was the first South African to win belts in different weight divisions.

Such was the iconic status of 'Baby Jake' in South African sporting circles that when he fought his last fight to retain the fourth of the world titles he won in his career, the late World Icon Nelson Mandela was at the ringside.

The iconic Dr Mandela, once a boxer and an ardent boxing fan, passed on last Thursday, 5th December 2013 at the age of 95.

Kaizer Chiefs Executive Chairman Mr Kaizer Motaung reacted with a heavy heart at the breaking of Matlala's news; "This is sad indeed. The country is robbed of two prominent and distinguished people in their own right. 'Baby Jake' was a boxer of note and represented South Africa with distinction in the boxing ring. He was short yet his exploits in the ring were tall by any measure.

This is the time of The Lord and as a Nation we must gain courage at the loss of the brave and distinguished people of Madiba and Matlala's stature. On behalf of Amakhosi I would like to wish the bereaved relatives strength and that this too shall pass. As a people we must be grateful that we have been witness to greatness in our life time. May his soul rest in peace;"Motaung said.

Love and Peace!