Mduduzi Moyo looks to cement his veteran status
From barefoot beginnings in Bulawayo to a seasoned pro career in South Africa, Mduduzi Moyo is ready for a fresh start on The Angel Promotions’ Now or Never card.
Bulawayo-born boxing warrior Mduduzi Moyo is determined to turn the page on a challenging chapter when he steps into the ring on July 24.
The 35-year-old cruiserweight will face local fighter Ntsako Myambo in a six-round cruiserweight bout on a stacked Now or Never card presented by The Angel Promotions. For Moyo, this fight carries more than just another entry on his record.
Born and raised in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, Moyo fell in love with boxing at age six after watching fighters train near his home. “I was the only small boy there, barefoot, shadow boxing with the big guys.”
Read more: After a year away, Hobyane sets for return to the ring
His father supported his passion, while his mother had reservations. He progressed quickly, representing Bulawayo province and winning silver at the 2007 Youth Games in Hwange before claiming gold the following year.
Dreaming of bigger opportunities, Moyo made the move to South Africa. Life was tough. He worked as a scullery hand in restaurants while trying to balance rent and training. “It wasn’t easy. I was staying in Diepsloot, working long hours.”
Visits to Topbox Boxing Gym were sporadic until 2018, when he turned professional alongside his friend Denis Mwale. His pro debut came against a heavier Chris Thompson, who, unfortunately, stopped him. Today, Moyo’s record stands at 3-7-0. He admits some losses stemmed from lack of discipline and travelling without a trusted corner. “Two fights I gave away. You need someone who knows you in your corner.”
Recent stoppages, including a second-round knockout by Jackson Kaptein, tested his resolve, but Moyo believes change is here. Training hard at Topbox under former boxer Thembani Hobyane and assistant coach Renson Hobyane, brothers of his longtime friend and colleague Lucky Hobyane, he feels mentally and physically sharper. “We’re working very hard. This one is going to be different.”
Also read: Minimumweight division bruiser goes from rural school grounds to pro boxing ring
As a father and family man, Moyo has learned to balance responsibilities. “Before, it was hard, but now I know my levels.”
He views Friday’s fight as a stepping stone. “I don’t choose opponents, I take what’s on the table, but with good time to prepare and the right team, we’re looking for a win.” A victory could open doors for more fights later this year.
Moyo remains ambitious, hoping to balance his record and chase titles while representing Zimbabwe on bigger stages. “I’ve got enough fights under my belt. With discipline and the right work, everything is possible.”
Boxing fans can expect a once-in-a-lifetime performance when Moyo makes his return to the squared circle and puts everything on the line.
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