Representing one’s country is an immense achievement for any athlete, and for Thando “Biggie” Mahlangu, being chosen to represent South Africa at a junior kickboxing tournament against Canada at Oudtshoorn Sports Festival in the Western Cape, was an honour which validated his hard work and determination.
“It means a lot to me because it shows I’ve improved and that people like my style of fighting. I truly appreciate being selected to represent South Africa, and as always, hard work and determination does pay off.”
However, this selection serves as just the first step towards a much larger life goal for Thando. He aims to continue honing his craft, striving to become an international kickboxing champion, and harbouring hopes of competing in prominent Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) competitions such as the Elite Fighting Championship (EFC) and the Ultimate Fighting Championships (UFC) in the years to come.
Thando, the latest kickboxing athlete from Triple Threat Dojo to earn his national stripes, earned the nickname “Biggie” due to his hand size, impressive hand speed and power despite competing in a lower weight class, as explained by Coach Wade Rendall, the Head Coach and Founder of Triple Threat.
Coach Wade [Left] & Thando “Biggie” [Right] Wearing their National Colors.
Triple Threat Dojo has a proven track record of nurturing young and talented individuals into elite combat athletes.
In recent months, both the coaches and athletes associated with the Dojo have amassed multiple awards. Notably, Thando was awarded the “Lowkick Fighter of the Year.” The Dojo has proudly produced not just one but three kickboxing athletes who have represented South Africa on the international stage.
Although Thando’s first outing in the green and gold did not go according to plan, Coach Wade expressed extreme pride in what his group of young athletes had achieved in a relatively short period.
“It’s quite a great achievement considering we’ve only been in kickboxing for four years as a coach and a club … Two of my [previous] fighters represented South Africa in Italy last year. To have three junior fighters with under two years of fighting experience is quite an honour. We’re quite proud of them.”
So, who is Thando “Biggie” Mahlangu?
Born and raised in Johannesburg, Gauteng, this 18-year-old talent has dedicated approximately four years to kickboxing.
Before joining Triple Threat Dojo, Thando explored and participated in soccer. However, his interest in combat sports intensified when he watched a televised event with his uncle, who has supported him ever since.
“I was actually watching the sport on TV, and I told him [his uncle] ‘I would like to join the sport one day’. He told me that he would make a plan for me, and since then, I’ve been training in kickboxing.”
What started as a mere interest quickly transformed into something more significant. Thando had never dreamed that he would go on to represent South Africa and compete against international fighters.
Overcoming Personal Obstacles
Before joining Triple Threat Dojo, Thando encountered personal challenges, including periods of depression and excessive rumination. However, being immersed in an environment that encouraged positive self-expression and having a robust support system enabled him to develop effective coping strategies.
Comparing his past to the present, Thando has acquired valuable breathing techniques that clear his mind and refocus his thoughts on tasks within his control. These techniques have become integral to his training methods and pre-competition routines.
“I’ve told myself not to focus on the past a lot, to focus on the now and to move on with life. To do what hurts and to push yourself to the limit … I actually prayed for the strength to overcome these obstacles.”
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The Importance of Positive Support Structure
Coach Wade understands the importance of not only addressing the physical well-being of his fighters but also their mental health. He goes above and beyond to create a positive environment for his athletes, offering support in various capacities and assuming different roles as needed.
“What I tend to do sometimes is to go far beyond the normal roles as a coach. Because it’s part of my life, and I’ve invested a lot in it. I tend to do a lot for my fighters … We always try to help our fighters where we can.”
Coach Wade’s priorities are building a sense of enjoyment and fostering team spirit among his fighters, ensuring they remain content and happy, regardless of the outcome.
For Thando, his support structure plays a vital role in his journey. He expresses exceptional gratitude for those who have stood by him, teaching him not to doubt himself.
Their unwavering encouragement has been instrumental in his accomplishments, and he credits their support for enabling him to achieve what he has.
“Their support is really important because without them encouraging me to push, I wouldn’t be where I am today … Especially to my coaches, I’m thankful for their help and always being there for me.”
As Thando “Biggie” Mahlangu continues to navigate his path in the kickboxing world, Triple Threat Dojo stands as a testament to the dedication, talent, and unwavering support shaping rising athletes into future champions.
With his national selection serving as a launching pad, Thando’s aspirations extend far beyond borders, fueled by his determination to leave an indelible mark on the global stage of combat sports.
