“VUT Karate Club impressed at USSA 2025, securing 6th place overall with a development team. With standout performances and a selection to the national team for Brazil, the future of VUT Karate looks unstoppable.”
09 July 2025 | Story By: Qhawekazi Memani | Picture:Â Supplied
2 minutes read time.
The Vaal University of Technology (VUT) Karate Club has again proven its place among South Africa’s martial arts elite at the 2025 University Sports South Africa (USSA) Championships. Despite fielding a development team made up entirely of junior belts, the VUT squad delivered an electrifying performance, finishing 6th overall out of 14 institutions.
This year’s competition wasn’t just about medals but heart, growth, and legacy. VUT’s athletes fought with unmatched determination, many stepping onto the mat at a national level for the first time and walking away with podium finishes.
Semi-Contact Results
Mduduzi Mkhabela – 1st place (Men under 59kg)
Nqobile Vuma – 2nd place (Ladies under 61kg)
Mei Thoabala – 2nd place (Men under 65kg)
Khanimamba Mhlongo – 3rd place (Men under 65kg)
Olwethu Mkhwanazi – 2nd place (Men over 84kg)
According to the Karate team coach, Palesa Mokoena, “the standout in this division was undoubtedly Olwethu Mkhwanazi, Mkhwanazi held his ground and fought like a true warrior, earning a silver medal and a spot on the national USSA team that will represent South Africa in Brazil next year.”
Full-Contact Results
Kata Division
🥇 Mbongiseni Dlamini – 1st place (Development Kata)
Clicker (Point Fighting)
Mapitsi Mashabela – 1st place (Women under 50kg)
Simphiwe Tshayingca – 3rd place (Women under 75kg)
Photo Mailula – 2nd place (Men under 80kg)
Moagi Kgamedi – 2nd place (Men Heavyweight)
Kumite (Knockdown Fighting)
Mapitsi Mashabela – 3rd place (Women under 50kg)
Simphiwe Tshayingca – 3rd place (Women under 75kg)
Mbongiseni Dlamini – 3rd place (Men under 55kg)
Floid Hlungwane – 2nd place (Men under 80kg)
Moagi Kgamedi – 1st place (Men Heavyweight)
VUT has been known for its dominance in the Men’s Heavyweight category for years, thanks to former champion Andile Masilela. This year, the torch was passed to Moagi Kgamedi aka The FlyingHulk, who kept the title right where it belongs at home at VUT.