SSS looks to end 2025 with a bang after a recent streak of losses
After a tough 2025 with three straight losses, Sibusiso “SSS” Sovendle is eager for a worthy opponent in his next EFC bout, ready to prove he’s still a bantamweight title contender.
Sibusiso ‘SSS’ Sovendle, nicknamed ‘Somandla’ (the strong one), is a bantamweight dynamo whose electrifying striking has thrilled fans in the Extreme Fighting Championship (EFC).
Despite a challenging year that left him with a 5-4 record after three consecutive defeats, SSS is laser-focused on landing a high-stakes fight to vault him back into the bantamweight title picture. Hungry for a top-tier challenge, he’s training hard and calling for a matchup that will showcase his championship potential.
Read more: Thrilling comeback crowns Djikasa heavyweight king at EFC 127
SSS exploded onto the EFC scene in 2023, securing five wins with five finishes, his relentless punches making him a fan favourite. “I want to face the toughest guys to show I’m the real deal,” he said. But 2025 brought tough lessons. At EFC 122 on April 10 in Johannesburg, he challenged bantamweight champ Faeez Jacobs in a co-main event.
Missing weight turned it into a non-title bout, and Jacobs stopped him with a high kick and ground-and-pound for a KO at 1:21 in round 1.
“That loss pushed me to dig deeper. I’m ready for a big test.”
Also read: Warrior promises comeback after EFC 126 loss
The setbacks kept coming. In June at EFC 124, he faced Thimna Mhlauli in a crowd-pleasing war, dropping a close unanimous decision (29-28 across all cards) despite landing heavy shots. “I know I can hang with the best, I just need the right fight to break through.” Then, on August 7 at EFC 126 at the WSB arena, veteran Gift Walker caught him in a rear-naked choke, forcing a tap at 3:54 in round 2, his first submission loss. “The cage shows you where to improve. I’m fixing my game for a top opponent.”
As the dust settles after EFC 127 and EFC’s focus on other divisions, SSS has no fight scheduled. His 55.6% win rate (1 knockout, 4 decisions) highlights his striking prowess, but recent losses (1 knockout, 1 submission, 2 decisions) reveal grappling gaps he’s working to close.
Fans are buzzing for his return, possibly at EFC’s next big event in October. “Give me a ranked fighter, someone who’ll push me to my limit, and I’ll prove I’m title material.” With his sights set on champ Jacobs, SSS is ready to seize his moment and storm back into contention.
Follow us on our Whatsapp channel, Facebook, X, Instagram and TikTok for the latest updates!
