Teen boxer eyes Olympics 2028

Tsakani – Seventeen-year-old Mthokozisi ‘Challenge’ Xundu is a rising boxer from Tsakani whose ambitions stretch far beyond the ring.
Last July, Mthokozisi was crowned the 2025 South African National Boxing Organisation (Sanabo) Youth and Elite National Boxing Championships youth gold medalist, further cementing his status as one of SA’s most promising young boxers.
He began boxing at the age of six under the guidance and mentorship of his father, Lwazi Xundu, now his coach.
Since then, his trophy cabinet has grown. Mthokozisi is a three-time Ekurhuleni Regional champion, a two-time Gauteng Provincial champion, and a two-time SA national champion.
This year, the young boxer aims to break onto the international stage.
“I want to participate in the African Boxing Confederation and the International Boxing Association competitions,” said Mthokozisi.
“These competitions will give me the international registration I deserve, improve my image and increase my experience as a boxer.
“Going international will also allow me to meet new people, compete against peers from different countries and learn new skills.”
Balancing academics with boxing has not been easy, he admits, but he believes discipline is the key.
“Blending school and boxing is not easy, but it can be done. Both require time management, focus and dedication,” he said.
Mthokozisi hopes to inspire his fellow club members to register with Sanabo this year.
“Joining the Sanabo will give them the exposure they deserve. They will experience what I have been through. Advancing to this level of competition makes you realise there is so much more to boxing to learn and gain,” he expressed.
Mthokozisi believes 2026 will be crucial for his development, with his long-term goal firmly set on representing SA at the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles.
Lwazi said the family and boxing club are committed to working even harder.
“Our biggest goal is to push twice as hard this year. Mthokozisi will produce good results and represent our country with pride.
“The boxing club members will soon represent us at the High Performance Centre in Pretoria,” he said.
“The Sanabo has selected Mthokozisi as part of the group expected to represent SA at the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles.”
Lwazi added that the journey will not be easy.
“Competing in the Olympics is demanding. African countries must work hard to prove they deserve this opportunity,” he cited.
He concluded by emphasising the club’s values.
“We are dedicated to hard work, discipline and positive development. In boxing, commitment and dedication reduce the risks. We work collectively towards achieving our goals,” he concluded.