From Amanzimtoti to the world stage: SA fighter heads abroad
A budding Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) fighter from Amanzimtoti will be representing South Africa in Abu Dhabi.
A five-year journey in fighting has come to a head for Jazmin Viljoen, 16, as the Amanzimtoti mixed-martial artist has earned a shot at representing South Africa on an international stage for the International Mixed Martial Arts Federation Youth World Championships set for August in Abu Dhabi, UAE.
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Jazmin dreams of becoming an Ultimate Fighting Championships (UFC) fighter, following in the footsteps of her idol, Dricus du Plessis, who has quickly cemented himself as one of the all-time greats of the sport.
“I truly have a passion for the sport. It takes a lot of dedication. When I was younger, I decided that after one training session that MMA is the sport for me, it is what I was made for,” said Jazmin.
She has trained extensively in Brazilian Ji-Jitsu, boxing and kickboxing, and has plans to broaden her skill-set even further. She trains every day except Sundays to refine her techniques.
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She has an impressive competitive record, having participated in numerous Ground Games competitions, where she won all her events. She competed in Submission Kings and Queens tournaments in Johannesburg, where she achieved two silver medals and one gold medal.
She represented KZN twice, in 2023, achieving a silver medal, and in 2024, achieving gold. This year, she represented KZN once more, where she competed in the U18 57kg women’s category and achieved a gold medal.
She recently raised money through car and bike washing to compete in Abu Dhabi. Jazmin needs R45 000 for travel, accommodation, visas and everything else necessary for her to compete at her best. If you would like to support her on her journey, donate to her BackaBuddy at www.backabuddy.co.za/campaign/get-jazmin-to-worlds-championship. Alternatively, get in touch with Lianne Viljoen on 073 841 8685, for more information.
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