Hailing from South Hills, Katlego “KG” Ndhlovu (27) is a Muay Thai fighter who started his Muay Thai journey two years ago. Katlego is due to leave for Thailand on February 19.
“Muay Thai is globally known for being the best striking martial art in the world. When MMA fighters want to polish their striking skills, they often go train at Muay Thai gyms.
“It originated from Thailand so this is where the best Muay Thai fighters go to compete for international championships and world glory. That is the journey that is upon me right now,” said KG, who is also known by his fight name El Cocodrilo (Spanish for the crocodile).
Events leading to where he is now
After high school, his goal was to become a professional football player.
KG started studying mathematical science at Sefako Makgatho Health Science University in Pretoria and was part of the varsity’s first football team.
“Although I performed well academically, I always thought I would be spotted by scouts for my football abilities.”
He didn’t complete his qualification and returned to Johannesburg where he attended the University of Johannesburg (UJ) to study computer science with the hopes that he could further develop his soccer prowess.
“My focus was only on sport and that caused me to slack academically. I am grateful for the opportunities that came with being a soccer player. I got to play with the best players I watched growing up, which was thrilling,” said KG.
When Covid-19 struck, it prevented KG from playing soccer. He lost his passion for the sport.
A development of passion
With the limitations enforced by the lockdown, KG began practising karate and posting videos on social media.
“I always say I didn’t choose karate, it chose me. I was on the Kingsway campus at varsity when two people kicking each other caught my attention. I approached them, enquiring about what they were doing and they said they were training. I was offered the opportunity to join karate classes,” said KG.
He sees this as a divine encounter since the dojo is located on Bunting campus. The karateka never trained on Kingsway campus except for that particular day.
He devoted his time and energy to perfecting his skills. His devotion earned him recognition from his sensei.
As a white belt and having never fought before, KG’s first fight was in an African tournament against a brown belt.
KG got disqualified for hitting his opponent in the face, which is prohibited in karate.
“I figured karate is not for me because I didn’t want to be restricted. I thought I should try kickboxing. I couldn’t find any kickboxing classes in the south but there was a Muay Thai gym even though I had no interest in the sport,” explained KG.
Despite his reservations, the skilled fighter joined the Muay Thai gym.
Internationally ready
What began as a disinterest in the sport has turned into a life-changing experience for KG. Being someone who always seeks a challenge, KG ventured to Cape Town to compete.
His excellent performance earned him recognition from a Muay Thai gym in Thailand, which has signed him for a professional career.
This is despite only practising Muay Thai since August 2021.
KG describes that he is not from a fighting family or a fighting background. He simply tried something new in life and it turned out to be a talent of his.
“I’ll be fighting in international stadiums on the global stage and can build a name for myself.”
KG aspires to not only go abroad to advance his skills but he also hopes to help grow the sport in South Africa.
“If we grow Muay Thai here in South Africa, fighters won’t need to worry about travelling to Thailand to look for opportunities; the Thai people will now have more eyes on South African talent.
“This means that I won’t remain as the only fighter to have been scouted; there could be 10, 20 or maybe even 100 more fighters who can be recognised internationally.”
Help a dream come true
To get to Thailand, KG has officially launched the first-ever Muay Thai street couture fashion collection and has released the first item, which is a T-shirt announcing that he has been signed to the Thai gym.
Funds from sales will be used for his ticket and visa for Thailand.
To show support, contact him on 067 133 4093 or email katlegokgndhlovu@gmail.com.
You can also follow the young talent on Instagram @el.cocodrilo._
“God has blessed my hard work, commitment and dedication to this sport with such a huge opportunity. Muay Thai has changed my life and it can change many people’s lives as well. This should show people that if you stay focused and goal-driven, opportunities will knock.”
