Thabani   "The Doctor"   Mndebela

Fighters Biography

When & why did you start martial arts training?

I started in year 2002 because I was bullied.

How did you transition to MMA?

I made the transition to MMA in 2017 because I wanted to compete in EFC.

What ranks & titles have you held?

I fought in Kyokushin world tournament in Japan in 2007, 2011 and 2015. I fought in Russia in 2008. I am an undisputed Kyokushin SA and All Africa heavyweight Champion since 2008. I won the Last Fighter Standing heavyweight Championship in 2016.

What does it mean for you to fight in the EFC?

This is a dream come true and the only way that I can reach out and change people’s lives through martial arts. It is a great honour indeed to be part of Africa’s toughest athletes. The doctor has arrived to consult in the cage!

JOB BEYOND MMA

I am full time medical doctor running a private surgery.

FAVOURITE STYLE

Mawashi gedan(low kicks) Mawashi Chudan (liver kicks) and Hiza Geri (knee strikes)

COVID

Covid has been crazy for me as a doctor at work. It also affected training as gyms were closed initially, limited numbers and social distancing yet we are doing a contact sport.

HEROS

I admire my late father Mr Mndebela, I am where I am today because of him. We lost him on the 4th of August 2021 and laid him to rest on the 8th of August 2021. I will fight for his honor. I also admire MrT hence the haircut and beared

ABOUT ME

I am a father of 2. My Son is 6 years old and he has Autism (love him so much) daughter is 4 years old. Since my father is late I have been honored to be the head of the house. I have a pravite general medical practice that I open in 2017.