Africa-Press – Eswatini. More than 20 athletes from across the SADC region are expected to descend upon Eswatini for the STANLIB Champ of Champs Karate Tournament, set to take place at the Mavuso Sports Emporium on 1st November 2025.
The annual event, which showcases the Oyama Kyokushin Karate discipline, is one of the most highly anticipated fixtures on Eswatini’s martial arts calendar. This year’s edition promises to be both fiercely competitive and internationally significant, as athletes prepare for upcoming global tournaments.
Tournament organiser Zwelile Thwala confirmed that interest in this year’s competition has been overwhelming, with several SADC countries already registering to participate.
“This year we are expecting a lot of athletes from the SADC region,” Thwala said. “It’s a preparatory regional tournament, and many will use it to sharpen their skills for the upcoming championship in Japan later this year. We’re seeing great enthusiasm and strong attendance.”
Thwala added that the organisers have been receiving numerous calls and registration requests from both regional federations and karate organisations keen to take part.
“The response has been excellent. We’re getting calls from across the region—athletes and organisations eager to attend and compete at the STANLIB Champ of Champs,” he said.
The STANLIB Champ of Champs has steadily grown in reputation over the years, attracting top karate talent from Eswatini and neighbouring countries. Last year’s tournament saw seven international participants, and this year’s expected turnout of over 20 foreign athletes marks a significant milestone in the event’s evolution.
This increase reflects the growing popularity of karate within the region and Eswatini’s rising prominence as a hub for high-level martial arts competition. The event not only promotes sporting excellence but also fosters regional cooperation and cultural exchange among SADC nations.
Organisers have also assured fans that the tournament will maintain the highest standards of professionalism, with qualified referees and strict adherence to international safety protocols. Spectators can expect a day filled with intensity, discipline, and skill, culminating in the crowning of the 2025 Champ of Champs.
The competition provides a platform for both seasoned fighters and emerging talent to demonstrate their mastery of Oyama Kyokushin Karate — a full-contact style known for its power, precision, and philosophy of perseverance.
With its blend of local and international participation, the STANLIB Champ of Champs Tournament continues to strengthen Eswatini’s reputation as a regional leader in martial arts. As over 20 SADC athletes prepare to take the mat, this year’s edition promises to be an electrifying celebration of strength, strategy, and sportsmanship.
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