A high-level of training and being super fit gave Nkosi Doyisa the edge to win the Alpha Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) event in the middle weight division in Midrand recently.
It was the first event to be hosted in Africa since since the Covid-19 pandemic.
Doyisa of Bhoboyi was up against against Peace Nguphane, a champion in his own right who is the International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF) All Africa gold medallist; the South African national welterweight champion 2019,2020; the South African national world’s team captain and the Fightstars middleweight champion.
But these impressive credentials did not faze the local champ who met Nguphane for three rounds.
“I felt confident in the ring,” he said.
Doyisa was matched up against his opponent in September. “Once I knew who I was fighting against, I came up with a strategy.”
This included an intense round of training made up of various disciplines – boxing, karate, kickboxing, wrestling, strength and cardio training and ju-jitsu – combined with diet.
To be faster and quicker on fight night, he was on a restrictive but healthy diet.
With 11 fights so far, with nine wins and two losses, Doyisa intends to grow in the sport and fight in different divisions.
“Eventually, I want to participate in the bigger leagues, be part of the national team and represent my country at international level,” he said.
As he has a background in karate, the move into MMA was inevitable.
However, he said it takes discipline to participate competitively. “Being in a tournament motivates me but at the end of the day I need to put in the effort to give of my best.”
His advice to youngsters interested in the sport is to “be dedicated, work hard, be consistent and have a clear mind.”
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