Ermelo karate twins rise through world rankings
Ermelo twins Chinedu and Chibuzo have established themselves among South Africa's leading young karate athletes, earning top national rankings, international medals and recognition on the world stage.
Twin brothers Chinedu and Chibuzo Okpugo have continued to build impressive karate careers, earning recognition among South Africa’s top young athletes and securing positions in the world rankings.
The brothers, who compete for the Mpumalanga Karate Association and Karate South Africa (KSA), have become familiar names in the sport through consistent performances at national and international competitions.
Chinedu is currently ranked 13th in the world in the Cadet Kumite Male Under-70kg division, according to the World Karate Federation rankings.
He also holds the number one ranking in South Africa in his division.
Earlier this year, he earned a silver medal at the Karate 1 Youth League in Harare, Zimbabwe.
He also secured a silver medal at the Karate South Africa Children, Cadets and Juniors National Championships held in Durban.
Chinedu received his official Protea colours on April 28.
Another significant achievement came at the regional championships held in Luanda, Angola, from May 13 to 17.
After being selected to represent South Africa, Chinedu claimed the gold medal with a 7-0 victory in the final.
His focus now turns to the Union of African Karate Federations (UFAK) African Continental Championships, scheduled to take place in Algeria later this year.
His twin brother, Chibuzo, has also compiled an impressive record.
Currently ranked 50th in the world and second in South Africa, he received his Protea colours in 2025 and remains one of the country’s leading karate competitors.
His achievements include multiple national titles, victories in the KSA League, and representing South Africa internationally.
