Young Ladysmith fighter talks about boxing and his “heroes”

Nhlonipho Hlubi says he is following in his father’s footsteps when it comes to his boxing career.

His dad is none other than quick-fisted Paul ‘Baby Hack’ Hlubi, who was crowned lightweight champion in 1998.

Nhlonipho became a professional boxer this year, meaning he now has the chance to compete against other professional boxers and get paid while doing so.

“Since childhood, my father has been grooming me to become a well-respected boxer who will put Ladysmith on the world map, just like he did. Boxing has now become my life, as I use every little chance I get to enhance my skills in the ring.

“As a young fighter, I feel blessed to get mentorship from legendary fighters like Thulani ‘Sugarboy’ Malinga, a retired professional boxer who was born and bred in Ladysmith, residing in Steadville. ‘Sugarboy’ won the WBC super middleweight title twice, as the third oldest fighter to win a world title behind legendary former champions George Foreman and Bernard Hopkins. Just imagine being mentored by a talent like that,” enthuses Nhlonipho.

He adds that he looks up to Floyd Joy Mayweather, a former professional boxer who was named ‘Fighter of the Decade’ because of his brilliant wins.

During his career, Mayweather won 15 major world titles, including The Ring in five weight classes and the lineal championship in four weight classes  (twice at welterweight), retiring with an defeated record.

Also read: Ladysmith athlete places second in Rio De Janeiro Marathon

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