IBF light-flyweight champion Sivenathi Nontshinga prepares for next fight
Nontshinga credits his success to his mental and physical approach, discipline, and strong support team. He aims to continue making history and paving the way for young boxers.
South African boxing has a new hero in Sivenathi Nontshinga, the two-time IBF light-flyweight world champion.
Born on December 3, 1998, Nontshinga, who resides in Fourways, has taken the international boxing arena by storm, with a journey marked by determination, hard work, and triumph.
Nontshinga’s rise to prominence began in 2022 when he first claimed the IBF light-flyweight title. His reign was short-lived, as he lost the belt in November 2023. However, his resilience and dedication saw him reclaim the title in February 2024, and he has been reigning supreme ever since.
As Nontshinga prepares for his upcoming fight in Japan scheduled for October 2024, the boxing world is abuzz with excitement. This bout is not just another fight; it’s proof of Nontshinga’s growth, and a stepping stone on his quest for greatness.
“It was not easy to get where I am. I faced a lot of challenges but I kept on believing in myself. I worked so hard and made sure that I pushed myself beyond the limits.
“When I won the title, it was in Mexico, in the year 2022. I became the youngest world champion in the history of South African boxing. I was 23 years of age. I did what I do best and believed in myself.”
He said winning the title was a dream come true and he is grateful that he had a strong team rallying behind his success.
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“In my mind, I was like, at least I managed to pave the way for all the young boxers to compete world wide and believe in themselves.”
When he lost the title, he said he knew he had a lot to prove to himself in order to get it back.
“I was hurt but knew that I had the right tools to reclaim it. I knew it has always been my title and I love challenges even though it was not much of a challenge for me because I have been to Mexico and claimed the leader and got the title. It was another record in history.”
According to Nontshinga, his preparation routine for his upcoming fight is straightforward, yet deeply rooted in his mental and physical mindset. He said he makes sure to eat healthy and train at least three times a day.
“I always make sure to remain teachable because it is impossible to approach different opponents with the same strategy. So, I take a lot of direction. Discipline as well, it is the most important thing.”
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