Nontshinga confident of repeat victory over Suganob even in hostile territory

CEBU, Philippines — Former world champion Sivenathi “The One” Nontshinga of South Africa beat Regie “Filipino Phenom” Suganob of PMI Bohol Boxing Stable by unanimous decision during their first meeting three years ago.

At that time, Nontshinga was defending his International Boxing Federation (IBF) light flyweight belt.

Now, their paths will cross again, but in a completely different circumstance this time.

The 27-year-old Nonsthinga will be coming over to Bohol to take on Suganob in an IBF light flyweight title eliminator top billing the “Kumong Bol-Anon XXVI” on September 12 at the Bohol Wisdom School gymnasium in Tagbilaran City.

Even if he’s fighting behind enemy lines, Nontshinga is confident of reaffirming his mastery over Suganob.

“I’m very confident but I’m not overconfident. There’s a difference,” said Nontshinga.

“The first fight showed me that I can beat him. The rematch is about proving I can do it again in his country, in front of his people.”

Seeing action in a hostile territory is not something new to Nontshinga, who won two world championship bouts in Mexico against Hector Flores Calixto in 2022 and against Adrian Curiel in 2024.

“I’ve fought outside South Africa before. I won my first world title in Mexico. I went back to Mexico and reclaimed my world title. I’ve been in hostile territory before,” Nonsthinga said. “So I don’t see Bohol as something to fear. Actually, I see it as an opportunity.”

“What the fans believe doesn’t determine what happens when that bell rings,” said Nontshinga “Regie and I are the only two men who can decide that.”

“If everyone in the building believes Regie is going to beat me, that’s even better,” the South African continued. “Because when you silence a hostile crowd, they remember you.”

Nontshinga holds a 14-2 record with 11KOs, while Suganob, both ranked No.1 by the IBF and WBO, carries a 18-1 slate with 7KOs. The winner of their highly anticipated rematch will earn a mandatory shot at reigning IBF light flyweight champion Thanongsak Simsri of Thailand.