The rural villages of Phaphazela and Mulenzhe, under Collins Chabane Municipality, could soon become a breeding ground for top-class boxers, thanks to the dedication of former Limpopo professional boxer turned coach, Marubini Khorommbi.
Khorommbi, who retired from boxing years ago due to work commitments, has now focused on nurturing young talent. He recently introduced boxing to learners at Ximunwana High School in Phaphazela, where he is currently training four aspiring fighters.
Three of his protégés — Etienne Hlabangwani, Rivoningo Bilankulu and Hope Khorommbi — have already reached professional status during an event hosted by the Malamulele Boxing Club. The fourth learner, Thuso Khorommbi, has featured in several televised boxing tournaments, further raising the profile of the rural-based club.
Khorommbi said boxing remains close to his heart and that he felt compelled to give back to his community.
“I just feel I owe my community and wanted to transfer my boxing skills to the young ones … I am training future champions, and the talent I am seeing makes me hopeful that within two years we will have champions coming from these rural villages,” he said.
Despite the progress, Khorommbi admitted the journey has not been easy, citing a lack of resources and proper training facilities.
“We are struggling because we do not have a gym nearby, and we also lack proper gloves and other equipment. We are appealing to anyone who has the interests of youth at heart to come on board and support us so that we can take our youth somewhere in the world of sport,” he added.
Mulenzhe and Phaphazela are among the poverty-stricken communities in the Vhembe region, where sporting opportunities are limited and crime remains a serious concern. Khorommbi believes boxing can help steer young people away from negative influences and provide them with hope and discipline.
The Vhembe region is widely regarded as the Mecca of boxing in South Africa, having produced renowned fighters such as Phillip Ndou, Isaac Hlatshwayo, Cassius Baloyi and Jeffrey Mathebula.