Xolisani Ndongeni, a former WBA Intercontinental champion, has announced his retirement from professional boxing at age 35 [1].
The departure of Ndongeni marks the end of a long-standing presence in South African boxing, leaving a void in the regional rankings while opening opportunities for emerging talent.
Ndongeni, widely known by the nickname "Nomeva The Wasp," spent 16 years in the professional ring [2]. His career spanned 41 total professional bouts [2]. Throughout his tenure, he secured 33 victories, including 19 wins by knockout [2]. He recorded eight losses during his competitive career [2].
Speaking from Duncan Village, kuGompo City, in the Eastern Cape, Ndongeni addressed his decision to leave the sport. "I am ready to hang up my gloves and make way for the younger generation," Ndongeni said.
The fighter earned his nickname due to his specific style in the ring. A reporter for News24 (Drum) said he had been a quick, stinging fighter, which earned him the moniker "The Wasp" [1].
Ndongeni's retirement comes after more than a decade of competing at a high level. By stepping away now, he intends to facilitate a transition of leadership within the sport to younger athletes in South Africa. His legacy remains tied to his tenure as a WBA Intercontinental champion and his consistent performance across 41 fights [2].
“"I am ready to hang up my gloves and make way for the younger generation."”
Ndongeni's retirement reflects a broader trend of veteran fighters transitioning out of the sport to avoid late-career decline while mentoring successors. His career statistics—specifically a high knockout ratio relative to his wins—establish him as a significant figure in South African boxing history, and his exit creates a competitive vacuum that will likely accelerate the rise of regional prospects in the Eastern Cape.
