Xundu crowned SANABO Youth National Champion and Best Boxer
The SANABO Youth and Elite Championships were held at Transnet Engineering Boxing Academy in Pretoria. Mthokozisi started boxing at the age of six, under his father's guidance and mentorship.
He mentioned that his first official fight as a boxer happened when he was just 10.
'I love boxing and have won various titles over the years,' he said.
He is a three-time Ekurhuleni Regional Champion, a two-time Gauteng Provincial Champion, and now holds the South African National Champion title for the second time.
'I box because I want to find my way out of the township. I want to make my parents proud and live a happy life that is not defined by my circumstances.
'The amount of money that boxers make motivates me to work hard. People think boxing is a dangerous sport, but do not realise the benefits it carries.
'One gets to travel a lot as a boxer, meet new people, experience new things, and explore new possibilities,' explained Mthokozisi.
He mentioned how happy he was to have won this new title, saying that this title serves as motivation for him to keep working hard. He said his win is a stepping stone towards greener pastures.
'I am working towards winning a gold medal and the welterweight (67kg) title at the 2028 LA Summer Olympics, which will take place in July 2028.
'That is my ultimate goal in the amateur phase. If things go according to my plan, I will make a good name for myself in the amateur scene before I become a professional boxer,' he added.
'My father trains me every day, and we work tirelessly towards making me a professional boxer. I am grateful for the encouragement I receive from my father. I am also thankful for my family's and teammates' support.'
His father, Lwazi Xundu, said Mthokozisi went head-to-head with Sinalo Thwala from the Eastern Cape in the semi-finals and later faced Shane du Plooy in the final rounds with dominant performances.
'Mthokozisi won by abandonment, after the opposing coach threw in the towel, signalling that his opponent could no longer continue.
'He challenged Shane du Plooy in the finals, where he won the bout with a unanimous points decision.
'He was also voted Best Boxer of the Championships, where he secured a certificate as the number one boxer, along with a trophy and a gold medal, sealing his victory in style,' explained his father.
Lwazi noted it was not easy to prepare for the championships as most of his boxers were writing mid-year exams.
'As a father and coach, I am proud of my son's achievement. I appeal to parents to support their children in sports, regardless of which codes they choose,' he said.
He further thanked their sponsor, Sechaba Morajane, who helps them with equipment at their boxing club.
'The equipment helps me prepare our boxers for participation in big tournaments. I also thank Kwanele Nkabinde, my former boxer, for contributing equipment.
'Without his help, there would not be any national championships in our township,' concluded Lwazi.
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