South Africa’s “Special One” Nontshinga Gears Up for Another Title Defense

South Africa’s Sive Nontshinga, known as the “Special One,” is preparing to defend his IBF light-flyweight title once again. With a record of 13-1, including 10 knockouts, Nontshinga is coming off a dramatic two-fight series against Adrian Curiel. The first encounter ended in a shocking two-round defeat in Monte Carlo, but Nontshinga bounced back in February, reclaiming his title with a 10th-round stoppage in Mexico.

Next, Nontshinga will travel to Japan to defend his regained title against Masamichi Yabuki, the IBF’s No. 2 ranked contender. The 32-year-old Japanese powerhouse, boasting a record of 16-4 with 15 knockouts, made headlines in September 2021 when he upset Kenshiro Teraji with a 10th-round stoppage to claim the WBC junior flyweight title. Yabuki’s most recent fight took place in April, where he knocked out Nicaraguan Kevin Vivas in four rounds in his hometown of Nagoya.

“I’m looking forward to this contest,” said Nontshinga’s trainer and manager, Colin Nathan. “Sive will be retaining his title in spectacular fashion.”

The 25-year-old Nontshinga, who resides in the Eastern Cape, is promoted by Matchroom Boxing. The upcoming bout in Nagoya on October 12 has been arranged in collaboration with Lush Midori Gym, Teiken Promotions, and Nathan’s No Doubt Management company.