Diepsloot fighter chases global MMA dreams
From learning karate for self-defence in an unsafe neighbourhood to becoming one of the greatest MMA global fighters, Nkosi Ndebele is marking his territory, at home and abroad.
Mixed martial arts (MMA) star Nkosi Ndebele, from Diepsloot, is proving that determination, faith, and perseverance can take a young athlete from humble beginnings to the biggest stages in world sport.
The Professional Fighters League (PFL) Africa bantamweight champion is preparing to represent South Africa in the United States, where he will compete on the PFL Global stage – a milestone he believes is only the beginning of his journey.
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Ndebele said his sporting journey started with Kyokushin Karate, which he initially joined for self-defence because of the neighbourhood he grew up in.
“I didn’t even know there was a sport called MMA. I started karate for self-defence, but I fell in love with competing. It was only after matric in 2016 that I discovered MMA and realised this was where I belonged.”
As he prepares to test himself against international opposition, the Diepsloot-born fighter remains grateful for the opportunity to fly the South African flag on the global stage, and feels confident.
” I have no anxiety at all. I’m excited for the game, and when I train, I don’t do specific training for an opponent. I just train for generally any fight, so I’m prepared. A change of opponent is nothing different.
We’ve fought different guys before, different styles before, so you just need to adapt, let that sink mentally, and then we’re ready to go.”
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Now, competing in the United States of America for the first time, Ndebele believes South Africa has an abundance of talent, but needs to invest more in young athletes before they become champions.
“We have the talent, we just need the platform and the support. Help should come while athletes are still building their dreams, not only when they’ve reached the top. I’m expecting to just go out there and make a statement. It’ll be good if I finish the fight with a beautiful KO or a TKO. That is my desire. It’s what I want.”
For young people growing up in communities like his, Ndebele has a simple message.
“Believe in your God-given talent, work relentlessly, and never allow your circumstances to define your future.
You may not be responsible for where you grew up, but you are 100% responsible for where you’re going. Stay positive, keep pushing, and never give up.”
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