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CONSTANTINO NANGA has moved from a tumultuous life surrounded by rowdy football fans to gaining recognition as one of the most exciting light-heavyweight prospects on the global stage.
This undefeated powerhouse, born in Angola and now competing in Sweden, once aspired to emulate Cristiano Ronaldo by wearing the colors of Manchester United during his youth.
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Nanga also had dreams of being the most notorious hooligan, inspired by films such as ‘Football Factory’.
Diving headlong into the hooligan lifestyle, he thrived on the violence that arose from skirmishes with rival factions.
After showcasing his skills against other hooligans, a senior member of his group advised him to turn his fighting talent into a career.
In an honest conversation with SunSport, the 28-year-old recounted, “At a certain point, I realized that becoming a footballer was not in the cards for me.
“So the transition to a different pursuit wasn’t difficult. I pondered, ‘What should my next goal be?’ Football hooliganism.
“Through this life, I discovered fighting, and an elder in my group noted, ‘You have a knack for this.’
“‘You should detach yourself from hooliganism and pursue this fighting with seriousness.’
“Their encouragement pushed me to take fighting more earnestly. That’s how I wound up here.”
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However, Nanga did not approach his demanding training sessions with the intention of becoming a better boxer.
“I never set out to be a professional fighter,” he reflected.
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“Even when training for fights, my goal was never to turn professional. My primary focus was football.
“My secondary ambition was to be the top football hooligan—number one in the world.
“Thus, I trained in fighting simply to become the most formidable hooligan.
“I approached hooliganism with the same serious attitude I now apply to my fighting, aiming to excel in both areas.”
Though Nanga aspired to be the world’s most feared football hooligan, his commitment in the gym ultimately reaped benefits in the boxing ring.
The 175-pound contender maintains an impressive unblemished 12-0 record since commencing his professional career in November 2022.
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Although he may not yet be a household name, he has already captured the attention of British boxing legend Lennox Lewis, who is mentoring him as he advances in his career.
Receiving guidance from the undisputed heavyweight champion has been an extraordinary experience for Nanga.
He expressed: “I feel privileged that [Lennox decided to work with me]. Perhaps it was meant to be; who knows?
“However, what I truly appreciate is that it could have been anyone—another fighter, a different promoter, or any number of boxing personalities who could have helped my career.
“But it’s Lennox’s character, personality, and who he is at his core that I genuinely admire.
“He embodies everything I sought in a mentor.”
Lewis envisions a promising future for Nanga, provided he actively pursues opportunities and heeds his valuable advice.
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