Coming off a unanimous decision victory over Owen Venganayi in August, Lopez Maluleke is carrying confidence into his next outing.

“That unanimous decision win in August was a big confidence booster, but more importantly, it was a validation of the work we’ve been putting in at the gym,” Maluleke said. “Owen is a tough competitor, and getting through those rounds cleanly showed me that our tactical discipline is paying off. Heading into this camp with Ardy Katompa, that momentum keeps me sharp, patient, and completely locked in.”

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The Limpopo boxer faces the durable Katompa over eight rounds at the Fourways Farmers Market. Maluleke has studied his opponent carefully.

“Katompa is a tough, experienced fighter with a solid 8-3-2 record — you don’t stay competitive at this level without being dangerous,” he said. “What stands out is his durability and his high work rate. He likes to apply pressure. To counter that over eight rounds, it’s going to come down to ring IQ, controlling distance, and using angles. We’ve studied his habits, and the game plan is designed to neutralise his strengths while exposing openings.”

Maluleke, who has moved down to featherweight, believes the change has sharpened his game: “Moving down to featherweight has been a disciplined process, but it’s paid off massively.”

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His training camp under Thembani Hobyani remains intense. “Camp is intense; it starts early with roadwork or a 5km run, followed by strength and conditioning work, and then evening sessions at Forge focusing on sparring, pad work, and movement drills,” he said. “My trainer has been the anchor of this entire camp, keeping me focused, disciplined, and prepared for whatever Katompa brings.”

Representing Limpopo drives him. “Coming from Limpopo, I carry a lot of pride with me every time I step through the ropes,” Maluleke said. “It’s an honour to represent my home province on big cards right here in Johannesburg. I want to inspire the younger generation back home and show what hard work from Limpopo can achieve on the national stage.”

A win would mark a key step. “A win here is massive for building sustained momentum,” he said. “Right now, it’s about putting together a solid win streak, improving my ranking, and showing promoters and fans that I’m ready for bigger opportunities and championship fights. Every fight is a stepping stone to where we ultimately want to be.”

The focus remains clear. “October 30 is the immediate focus, getting a statement win to close out the final stretch of 2026,” he said. “Beyond that, the goal for next year is to stay active, keep climbing the rankings, and line up bigger domestic title opportunities. We are building toward the top.”

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