South African two-time IBF light-flyweight world champion Sivenathi “Special One” Nontshinga has been involved in a serious motor vehicle crash on Malibongwe Drive in Johannesburg.
The 27-year-old Eastern Cape-born boxer, who rose from Newlands near Mdantsane to become one of South Africa’s standout fighters in the lighter weight divisions, was preparing for a high-stakes IBF world title eliminator against Filipino rival Regie Suganob. His departure for the Philippines was scheduled for 4 September, with the bout expected around mid-September.
Nontshinga previously defeated Suganob by unanimous decision in July 2023 while making the first defence of his IBF title. A win in the rematch would position him for a potential third reign as world champion a historic first for a South African in the division.
Further details on the circumstances of the crash and Nontshinga’s condition have not yet been released. The story remains developing