Cresta-based boxer Ronaldo Sibisi secured a quick victory against Ricardo Shaw at the inaugural Shaya Thursday development boxing tournament at Emperors Palace.

The featherweight clash was scheduled for four rounds, but Sibisi delivered a first-round TKO to improve his record to 2–1. He said the win meant a lot to him after putting in extensive hard work and sacrifice. “It shows me that the work I’m putting in is starting to pay off,” said Sibisi. “I’m proud of the result, but I also see it as motivation to work even harder and achieve bigger things.

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“When I stepped into the ring, I was focused and ready. I knew I had prepared for that moment. I stayed calm, trusted my training and listened to my corner. Once the bell rang, it was all about doing my job and giving everything I had.”

He explained that the preparation was tough. He stayed consistent with his boxing sessions, conditioning, running, strength training and sparring. Nutrition and recovery were also important. “There were definitely days when I was tired, but I reminded myself what I was working towards,” he said. “Discipline is what keeps you going when motivation isn’t there.

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“I learned that preparation and discipline are very important. Once you’re in the ring, you have to trust the work you’ve done in training. I also learned to stay composed under pressure and that there’s always something you can improve, even after a win.”

The Golden Gloves event, which combined amateur and professional bouts, will become a monthly feature at the venue on the last Thursday of every month. Sibisi said that it was an amazing experience fighting at a big venue like Emperors Palace. It made the moment feel even more special. “This win has made me even hungrier. I want to keep improving, gain more experience and continue winning.”

He advised young talented boxers to believe in themselves and never give up. “Boxing requires a lot of sacrifice, discipline and patience. There will be difficult days and setbacks, but keep working. Stay humble, listen to coaches, learn from every fight and keep chasing the dream.”

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