Another boxer from the North-West University (NWU) boxing team has just turned professional.

Sphiwe Mankosi, one of the most decorated student boxers since joining the team, recently made the switch from amateur boxing to pro.

Sphiwe has participated in various local tournaments, league, provincial and national championships, and is now ready to take his fight to the next level.

“The Mahikeng-born flyweight has won everything there was to win at amateur level,” says NWU boxing team chairperson Keorapetse Mashimo. ”There is nothing stopping him from dominating as a professional.”

Sphiwe says he started boxing at a very young age, but health issues put boxing on the back burner.

“In 2015 I started boxing again, and since then I haven’t looked back,” he adds. “Boxing is my life, and I've been working hard to stay on top.”

Sphiwe has had 19 fights in his amateur boxing career, of which 10 were wins and nine were losses.

“It might not be the best record, but I'm proud of myself. I never gave up. I met with top guys in the field and I'm still standing tall,” he adds.

"I thank God for giving me this talent. The vast support I got from my family and friends put me where I wanted to be. I thank the NWU boxing club, NWOBO, and MEBC for giving me the opportunity to express myself.”

 NWU boxing team coach Onalenna Tsae prepares Sphiwe Mankosi during a boxing match.