# Best I Faced: Love More Ndo
**After overcoming extreme poverty and apartheid, Lovemore Ndou fought against the best fighters of his generation and became a world champion.**
Lovemore Ndou, born on August 16, 1971, in Musina, Limpopo Province, South Africa, had a challenging childhood full of hardships. Raised near the South African-Zimbabwe border amidst poverty, Ndou had to swim across a crocodile-infested river at the age of seven to catch fish for his family’s sustenance. His parents, a mechanic in the Defense Forces and a produce vendor, struggled to make ends meet, making Ndou’s access to education a challenge until he was nine years old.
Growing up during the apartheid era in South Africa, Ndou witnessed and experienced significant injustices. His encounters with police brutality and racial discrimination, including being jailed and physically harmed, fueled his early anger and defiance.
Dabbling in various sports, Ndou eventually found his calling in boxing after a local coach saw his potential during a soccer match where Ndou’s aggressive style stood out. Transitioning to boxing, Ndou had to work on controlling his anger, realizing that composure and focus were key to success in the sport and life.
His boxing career in Australia flourished, leading to significant matches against notable opponents like Miguel Cotto and Canelo Alvarez. Ndou captured the IBF junior welterweight title in 2007 and continued to showcase his skills in the ring, earning respect for his tenacity and skill.
After retiring from boxing with an impressive record, Ndou pursued higher education and currently works as a lawyer in Sydney, Australia. With multiple degrees and ongoing academic pursuits, Ndou exemplifies a reformed fighter who found success both inside and outside the ring.
His journey from a poverty-stricken childhood to a distinguished legal career reflects resilience, determination, and a commitment to personal growth beyond the confines of sports. Lovemore Ndou’s story serves as an inspiration, highlighting the transformative power of perseverance and self-improvement.
