Dingaan Thobela, the revered South African boxer affectionately known as the 'Rose of Soweto', passed away at the age of 57 after a prolonged battle with illness, reports News24.

Thobela achieved prominence as the WBO lightweight champion from 1990 to 1992 and later clinched the WBA title in the same weight class in 1993.

In 2000, he ascended to the WBC super-middleweight championship. His remarkable career spanned 56 fights, boasting 40 victories, including 26 by knockout, alongside 14 losses and two draws.

Tributes have been pouring in to honor his memory.

@SuperSportTV  - South African boxing legend Dingaan Thobela has died at the age of 57 after a battle with illness. At the height of his success in the early 90s, The Rose of Soweto held world titles in two weight classes. Thobela claimed 40 wins from 56 fights, 26 of which were knockouts. Condolences to Thobela's family and his many supporters.

@GovernmentZA -  Good morning South Africa. Saddened to hear about the passing of #TheRoseOfSoweto  With a heavy heart, condolences to the family and let the memories of Dingaan Thobela bring comfort. May your soul rest in peace #RIPDingaanThobela the legend

@breezymak -  Growing up an only child living with only my Grandmother, the Elders in my village would call me Dingaan Thobela because I constantly had to fight off bullies who knew I had no one else to defend me. Rest in peace my goat, you inspired my growth #RIPDingaanThobela

@EFFSouthAfrica -  The EFF extends condolences on the passing of this legendary and iconic boxer. A titan in the boxing world. We are deeply saddened by the loss of this legend. Rest in Revolutionary peace Rose of Soweto.

@KasiEconomy -  "Growing up an only child living with only my grandmother, the elders in my village would call me Dingaan Thobela because I constantly had to fight off bullies who knew I had no one else to defend me."