22-07-2025
Legendary in fists journey – the life of White Buffalo
Francois Botha (56), well-known as 'The White Buffalo', a South African fighter from the streets of the City of Coal, is back, not in the ring, but deeply involved in the sport he loves so much.
He started doing wonders in the ring in 1990. He secured two titles that led to his international recognition. He stepped out of South Africa to enter the bigger arenas around the world. He had bigger dreams that led him to leave for the United States, knowing there were fewer rules on fights and much more prize money to be won.
His biggest moment came in 1995, when he faced Axel Schulz for the IBF Heavyweight World Title. The White Buffalo fought with everything he had. When the final bell rang, he was the new world champion. It was a dream come true, a huge moment for him and South African boxing. But this great victory also brought a tough challenge. Soon after, he lost the title because of a failed drug test, which was a very difficult time in his career.
But if there's one thing you know about The White Buffalo, it's that he never gives up. Even after losing his title, he proved his courage by stepping into the ring with some of the biggest names in boxing history. His total professional record shows just how much he fought – 63 fights, winning 48 of them, with 29 of those wins coming by knockout.
He battled other fighters and former champions like Michael Moorer in 2000, including the living legend Evander Holyfield in 2002. He also battled Lennox Lewis in 2000 for the unified heavyweight title. But perhaps his highly remarkable fight was in 1999, when he faced off against Mike Tyson.
In his 40s, The White Buffalo jumped into the world of kickboxing, and he had a kickboxing match against the 27-year-old All Black rugby star, Sonny Bill Williams, at 44.
'It was not easy, but the rewards the world can see! God is great! This all started as a young boy from eMalahleni at the Blesbok Park boxing gym,' The White Buffalo said.
'Buffalo is semi-retired as I'm in negotiations for one more, to become the oldest Heavyweight Champion in history,' Botha added.
The legendary boxer is now back in South Africa.
The White Buffalo's journey in the boxing ring, and later in other combat sports, is a wild ride full of powerful punches, big wins, unforgettable moments, and a spirit that just never gives up.
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