South African boxing champion Ricardo “Magic Man” Malajika says becoming a WBC world champion has made years of sacrifice worthwhile.

The 28-year-old produced a career-defining performance last weekend, beating Japan’s Tomoya Tsuboi by split decision to claim the WBC Bantamweight title.

Speaking after his return, Malajika said holding a WBC belt is the ultimate dream for any boxer.

“It shows that I’ve put my life and I never wasted my time planting into my career and my sport,” Malajika said.

“I believe it’s every boxer’s dream that walks in and everyone that has been watching Muhammad Ali to have this belt.”

For Malajika, the achievement is proof that his biggest ambitions were never unrealistic.

“It doesn’t get bigger than this,” he added. “It’s everyone’s dream and me having this right now shows that dreams are possible, dreams do come true.”

The new champion also credited boxing for shaping him both inside and outside the ring.

“I owe it to boxing to become the WBC. Boxing made me who I am, Ricardo Malajika, the Magic Man.”

Malajika said the sport has also shaped him as a husband and disciplined individual.

He is now part of an exclusive group of South African WBC champions that includes Thulani “Sugarboy” Malinga, the late Dingaan “The Rose of Soweto” Thobela, Kevin Lerena, Siyakholwa “One Way” Kuse and Bernice Ferreira.

Malajika believes his achievement could inspire the next generation of his family.

“I’m the first one in my big family to have it,” he said “So, I’m opening doors for the next upcoming Malajikas that’s there.”

The Magic Man has reached the top — and he believes his WBC crown is only the beginning of a legacy.

Visit MDNtv YouTube Channel for our video content