South African Karate Star Fights His Way Into the Global Ranks

The young South African finished seventh at the Karate 1 Youth World League, building on recent domestic success and adding to the country’s growing youth karate momentum.

Fujairah, Dubai (16 February 2026) – Bohlokwa Khitsane is making a habit of flying the South African flag high, and his latest international performance is further proof that his star continues to rise.

Born in Harrismith, the JKA Karate athlete delivered a powerful showing at the prestigious Karate 1 Youth World League in Fujairah, Dubai, going toe-to-toe with 95 of the world’s best young competitors. Over six intense bouts, Bohlokwa secured four victories and suffered just two narrow defeats, finishing an impressive seventh overall.

In a tournament known for its fierce competition and elite standards, cracking the top ten is a huge deal! He demonstrated a fighting spirit that has become synonymous with his name.

Bohlokwa is no stranger to international success. In 2022, he claimed two gold medals and one silver at the Commonwealth Karate Championships in Birmingham, firmly establishing himself as a young athlete to watch. Since then, he has steadily climbed the ranks, gaining experience and confidence with every competition.

His success also forms part of a bigger and exciting story for South African karate. The country has seen a wave of young karatekas stepping up on the continental and global stage. Just last December, South Africa achieved a historic milestone at the 2025 African Youth Games, where every South African karate athlete returned home with a medal. Making this a first in the history of both the Games and Karate South Africa.

Bohlokwa’s latest performance adds to that momentum. With young athletes continuing to rise through the ranks.

Sources: Free State Academy Of Sports

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