The last time Sivenathi Nontshinga competed, nine months ago, he travelled to Mexico as an unheralded boxer from the Eastern Cape.
By the time he had completed 12 violent rounds against Hector Flores, his name was on the lips of every boxing fan lucky enough to see his performance which was duly recognised among the three top international fights of the year.
Moreover, he captured the IBF light-flyweight world title and was feted upon his return to South Africa.
Hector Flores and Sivenathi Nontshinga exchange big shots on the inside in RD8 ?? #FloresNontshinga | #EstradaCortespic.twitter.com/zVz5hnDSXh
— RINGOFHIGHLIGHTS (@ringofhighlight) September 4, 2022
Sivenathi Nontshinga defeats Hector Flores by 12RD split-decision ???? #FloresNontshinga | #EstradaCortespic.twitter.com/nzM9SEokgU
— RINGOFHIGHLIGHTS (@ringofhighlight) September 4, 2022
This weekend, he will defend that title in his hometown of East London - the first time he is fighting at home in over two years – against crafty Regie Suganob of the Philippines, the International Boxing Federation’s number one contender.
The action will be broadcast live on LaLiga (DStv 204) from 2pm on Sunday.
The Uprising....... Sivenathi "The Special One" Nontshinga vs Regie Suganob. @RumbleAfrica1 pic.twitter.com/ycJp4tWF96
— SA.Boxing (@izwepromotions) June 26, 2023
The South African has long been called “The Special One”, an apt name given that he has long looked like a special talent.
Fighting out of the Eastern Cape, he would typically steal the show with his slick, come-forward style that the fans lapped up. He was pushed quickly matched tough, and met every test. Just 11 bouts into his career and he has a reasonable claim to being SA boxing’s most precocious talent.
The challenger hasn’t mixed in the same company, but he’s durable and busy, relying on a steady work rate rather than heavy hands to claim his due. He’s also unbeaten and rugged, but fighting in the champion’s back yard will be more than rough; it will be intimidating and daunting.
Colin Nathan, the champion’s manager and trainer, isn’t playing mind games: he expects his fighter to make a statement.
“He’s on weight, he’s worked hard, is in good shape and had great sparring. You’ll see an exhibition of skills, a win in fine style,” he predicted.
The stage is thus set for a happy homecoming for Nontshinga, who is determined to give East London’s famously joyous crowds extra reason to cheer this weekend.
The undercard rates as one of the best in years with three SA championship bouts in among the action.