After telling journalists on Monday, "It is an honour that she (Laila Ali) should could here," (to South Africa) and wishing her luck in Saturday's world title fight ("We will be next to her in the ring - if not physically, then spiritually."), former president Nelson Mandela was equally courteous and supportive yesterday of her opponent, Gwendolyn O'Neil – and indeed of women's boxing in general.

"We support the fact that women have come forward to challenge the role of men.," he said. "(Boxing) has been monopolised by men, so it's good that women have come forward. I think it's a very good development."

O'Neil, meanwhile, after surprising onlookers and organisers at a "box and dine" event at fight venue Emperors Palace on Saturday night by grabbing Ali in a "vice-like hug" and kissing her, made sure yesterday the ink continued to flow in advance of their showdown with the claim that she may have been poisoned last time she fought the world champion.

 Apparently Mandela expressly requested a meeting with O'Neil so as not to appear impartial. According to The Star's Sheena Adams: " He said he wished both women luck but that the best must win."

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