Cape Town has become a hub for Street Fighter enthusiasts as the highly anticipated release of Street Fighter 6 sparks excitement among players, both new and seasoned. This surge of interest aligns perfectly with the upcoming Red Bull Kumite, an invitational showcase that brings together the world’s top fighting game talent. In 2023, South Africa will proudly host the event, with Jabhi Mabuza, a four-time Red Bull: Hit the Streets Champion and an integral figure in the local Street Fighter scene, representing the country.
Jabhim, as Mabuza is known in the gaming community, discovered his passion for gaming in the bustling arcade scene of his hometown, Alexandria, Johannesburg. Immersed in titles like Snow Bros. and Street Fighter 2 from a young age, he devoted his time to mastering the mechanics of the game rather than focusing solely on competition. As he delved into other fighting game franchises like Tekken 2, King of Fighters 97, and Street Fighter Alpha, Mabuza’s skills flourished, eventually establishing him as a prominent figure within the local fighting game scene.
With the emergence of Street Fighter 5 and the growing eSports scene, Mabuza realized his potential for competitive play. In 2019, he emerged victorious in the annual Red Bull: Hit the Streets tournament, catching the attention of Goliath Gaming, a prominent eSports organization in South Africa. This partnership marked a turning point in his career, allowing him to pursue his passion on a larger stage.
While dedicated to his eSports career, Mabuza strikes a balance between his personal life and gaming commitments. His wife understands his love for the game and supports his practice sessions. Mabuza believes in maximizing the limited time he has for gaming, ensuring each practice session is focused and effective.
The release of Street Fighter 6 has breathed new life into the fighting game community, rekindling the interest of players who had been disengaged from the franchise. Mabuza highlights the game’s positive reception and the return of veteran players, which adds a healthy level of competition to the scene. He envisions the South African fighting game community flourishing as the country hosts the prestigious Red Bull Kumite. This unprecedented opportunity will expose local players to international competition and provide them with valuable learning experiences.
As the first African player to participate in the Capcom Cup, Mabuza understands the importance of setting an example for aspiring players. He is excited about the impact of Red Bull Kumite on the local scene, as it will offer clear benchmarks for improvement. While acknowledging the lack of high-level experience among South African players, Mabuza believes that Street Fighter 6’s recent availability provides a level playing field, where local talent can compete head-to-head with international players.
Mabuza’s advice to fellow players is to persevere and embrace the learning process. He encourages players to remain humble and learn from defeats, emphasizing the transformative power of dedication and practice. Through his own journey, Mabuza has discovered that persistence pays off, and the thrill of defeating opponents who once seemed unbeatable is the ultimate reward.
