Sanele Sogcwayi charges toward boxing stardom

With a pristine professional record and a pedigree forged in the toughest gyms of the Eastern Cape, Sogcwayi is no longer just a prospect, he is a looming threat to the established order.

In an exclusive conversation with the public broadcaster, the skilful puncher looked back at his amateur start.

“I started boxing in 2004 in the streets of Mdantsane. My amateur record consists of 285 fights and during that time I became an AFBC African Champion in 2023, and I also got a silver medal in the Nelson Mandela Cup three years ago. Being an amateur was an amazing journey,” Sogcwayi said.

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Since turning pro under the guidance of Brian Mitchell and Manny Fernandes, with the help of Golden Gloves as a vehicle for opportunity, Sogcwayi has been flawless.

His most recent outing on March 28 at the “Sole Survivor” event at Emperors Palace, further cemented his status as a rising challenger. Sogcwayi secured a commanding victory over the experienced Namibian Thomas Shifiona, extending his undefeated pro record to 5-0.

Backed by his family, a supportive team and a competitive stable, Sogcwayi believes he has what it takes to make a big name for himself in the fight game.

“I started boxing for fun, then I quickly realised that I can rely on it in terms of living. When God blesses you with something, you must use it while you can,” he added.

“I’m a good listener and a hard worker. I think that’s why my team and myself believe I can become a World Champion. I’m not that kind of a boxer that sees himself as a star, I’m just a hard worker with a dream of becoming a World Champion."