Kenilworth-based Fighterz Inc’s Faeez “Troublemaker” Jacobs, 21, has claimed four titles and three belts in the last 10 months.
The Troublemaker has exceeded all expectations on the SA kickboxing scene.
Last month, he upset the home crowed when he knocked out Thaiholics’ Michael Clacher, at the Goodwood Correctional Services, to claim the PFC Promotion 60kg belt.
He also won the 60kg title at the SA championships in Pretoria, last month, and knocked out veteran kickboxer, Lucky van der Mokata from Young Guns to win the vacant South African Kickboxing Association (SAKA) sanctioned belt.
“I’m a three-belt champion now and the number one kickboxer in South Africa.
“Last year, I said I wanted to get one belt, and I did that.
“This year’s goal was to add another three belts, and I’ve already won two.
“In my 10 months of kickboxing, I’ve cleaned out the 63kg division and am thinking of moving over to boxing. I’d like to get ranked as the number one boxer in South Africa then move to MMA,” said Faeez.
“I had a great battle with Lucky and learnt a lot from that fight. It was just what I needed and it took me to the next level.
“He had a lot of ring control and different movements because of his vast experience.
“I had 10 days to prepare for his fight, and managed to get the knockout in the fifth round.
“Everything changed for me after this fight – my ring control, positioning, and little things that I wasn’t aware of before.
“After watching the fight, I also learnt how to apply my tactics a lot faster, which led to the quick knockouts at the SA Champs and against Clacher,” he said.
His coach, Fidaah Edries, said mental and physical conditioning is equally important when gearing up for a big fight.
“Faeez has always gone up against more experienced fighters.
“But, his will and determination has been much stronger,” said Edries.
Meanwhile, Jacobs’ sparring partner, Junaid “Hand Granade” Fredericks, 17, lived up to his moniker as his explosive hands earned him a victory by judges’ decision, in his first boxing bout at the PFC7 fight night.
Junaid said it took a bit of adjusting in the ring when he made his boxing debut.
“I was supposed to fight a 60kg junior but ended up fighting a senior. I went the full three rounds and won via points.”
