Ben Mostert will represent South Africa at the Junior World Kickboxing Championships in Italy after overcoming serious injuries that once threatened his sporting future
Cape Town, South Africa (22 May 2026)- For 16-year-old Ben Mostert, representing South Africa on the world stage is not just another sporting achievement. It is the result of years of discipline and fighting through setbacks that at one point nearly ended his sporting journey altogether.
The Grade 11 learner from South African College Schools has officially been selected to represent South Africa at the Junior World Kickboxing Championships in Italy this September, where he will compete in ring fighting for the very first time at world championship level. And for Ben, that moment means everything.
Currently the South African champion in the Under-86kg Ring Fighting division, Ben has spent most of his life working towards this opportunity. He started kickboxing at just six years old under Shihan Dave Venter at Elite MMA and has since built an impressive list of achievements, including multiple Cape Town, Western Cape, South African and African titles.
He was also previously ranked among the top three tatami kickboxers in the world.
But while the medals and titles tell one side of the story, the past year tested him in ways sport alone could not.
After suffering serious rugby injuries last year, including surgeries and complications that affected his lung, there were genuine fears that he might never compete again. The road back demanded months of rehabilitation, recovery and rebuilding both physically and mentally.
Thankfully, after extensive work with doctors, physios, specialists, coaches and family support, Ben has now been cleared to compete again and is preparing for what will also be his final Junior World Championships before transitioning into the senior ranks.
That makes this year’s tournament even more significant.
“This opportunity is especially meaningful because it will be my final Junior World Championships. I am determined to give absolutely everything I have in training and competition.”
However, representing the country internationally comes at a significant cost. Flights, accommodation, competition fees, team kit and specialised ring-fighting equipment are expected to total around R60,000.
To help make the trip possible, a crowdfunding campaign has now been launched to assist Ben in getting to Italy.
Those wanting to support, donate or learn more about his journey can follow the crowdfunding information here.
