Nasiphi Vellem has known he belonged in the cage since the first day he walked into a mixed martial arts (MMA) gym.

Although he started later than he would have liked, the connection was immediate. Vellem said he has loved fighting since he was young, noting it was a pity he did not grow up near a gym where he could train. He added that from the first day he walked into an MMA gym, he knew that was what he wanted to do.

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That love has only grown, with Vellem stating he does not think there is a sport he has ever loved so much. His daily routine reflects that commitment. He wakes up at 07:00 and starts training at 08:00, noting the only part he has to force is waking up.

Growing up without ready opportunities shaped his mindset, forcing him to persevere and create opportunities for himself, which helped him understand life from a young age. His mother is his greatest source of strength, and he noted he does not think there is a person alive mentally stronger than her.

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Faith keeps him centred. As a born-again Christian, he said looking to Jesus Christ helps ground him. Vellem said there is nothing he wants more than to represent South Africa on the world stage and show what the country can offer.

MMA has also taught him resilience. Having found everything easy growing up, MMA provided a challenge he could not turn down because he loves pressure. Long-term success for Vellem means fighting the best athletes in the Ultimate Fighting Championship and eventually giving back to the youth in his hometown.

His guiding principle is that pressure makes diamonds.

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