Tana Malinga

Tana Malinga

Johannesburg turned up the heat this week as the wildly popular Firewings Challenge by RocoMamas came to a blazing finish with an electric grand finale at Pineslopes on 13 May 2026.

For weeks, Mzansi’s bravest spice lovers packed out RocoMamas stores across the country, all chasing one mission, survive 10 fiery wings, Fire Fries and a Sprite in under 10 minutes. What started as a food challenge quickly exploded into a full-on social event, with crowds cheering, phones recording and competitors sweating through every bite.

The grand finale delivered pure entertainment as 10 finalists from around South Africa went wing-to-wing in a heated battle for the crown. When the smoke finally cleared, Katleho “Parkies” Tshepe from Melville emerged victorious, walking away with bragging rights and a sizzling R10 000 cash prize.

Candice Dube from Parktown brought serious fire to claim second place, while Pearl Shabangu from Alberton secured third after a fierce performance that had the crowd roaring.

Dr Tumi Sebopa, Head of Brands at RocoMamas, described the challenge as one of the brand’s most exciting experiences yet, saying South Africans fully embraced the fun, the competition and the chaos of the heat.

But the night was not only about flames and fast eating.

Guests at the finale also got an exclusive first taste of “The Real MacCoy”, the newest RocoDrop landing nationwide from 15 May. The bold new menu puts Mac ’n Cheese centre stage with comfort-food creations including the Beefy MacCoy, Smashing MacCoy burgers, Mac ’n Nashville and the loaded Real MacCoy Combo packed with ribs, wings and a signature Mac Puck.

One thing became crystal clear throughout the challenge, South Africans came for the wings, but stayed for the vibe.

For more information visit RocoMamas.

Images supplied