Xander and Joshua Links have made a name for themselves on the international karate stage with their outstanding performance at the prestigious International Kanazawa Cup 2025. As 2nd Dan Black Belts and proud members of the SA Protea Team, the brothers’ relentless dedication to karate has propelled them to unparalleled success, solidifying South Africa’s rising presence in the sport.
Their father, Sensei Nicolas Links, said: “Their accomplishments extend beyond mere victory—they represent years of unwavering discipline, strategic training, and an unbreakable determination to excel at the highest level. At the heart of their success lies a rigorous training regimen and a commitment to mastery.”
The Kanazawa Cup, named in honour of legendary Soke Hirokazu Kanazawa, attracts some of the world’s most formidable karateka, making it one of the toughest international competitions. The Links brothers, however, proved that South African talent belongs on this grand stage.
Xander Links, 20, has already built an impressive resume in karate and academics. Currently in his third year of BSc Computer Science at UKZN with distinctions, he has earned a full sporting scholarship for karate. He dominated the senior divisions at the Kanazawa Cup, securing double gold in Kata and Kumite, and was awarded the prestigious Grand Champion title by Japanese Master Shuseki Shihan Manabu Murakami (8th Dan SKIF Japan).
Joshua Links, 17, is following closely in his brother’s footsteps, constantly raising the bar in both karate and academics. His debut in the Senior Kata Division at the Karate KZN Championship was remarkable, securing a gold medal and making him the youngest competitor in the Senior Male Kata category to achieve such an honour.
The brothers’ victory at the Kanazawa Cup follows an already dominant run earlier this year at the Karate KZN Championship, Karate South Africa Nationals, and League events. They have proudly qualified to represent South Africa as part of the Protea Team at the UFAK Region South Championships, set to take place from 23-25 May 2025. Beyond continental success, Xander and Joshua have set their sights on the WKF World Championship 2025 in Cairo, Egypt.
Hanshi Sonny Pillay, President of Karate South Africa, said: “The Links boys have the potential to soon become World WKF Karate Champions. Having trained since the age of three, they are living proof that hard work pays dividends. Their exceptional work ethic and dedication to their craft are key to their success.”
The Links brothers’ success is deeply rooted in the mentorship and guidance they have received over the years. Their father, Sensei Nicolas Links, and mother, Vivashne Reddy, have been instrumental figures in their development. Renshi Brando Pillay (7th Dan WKF) and Sensei Njabulo Khumalo, along with the wider SKISA, KSA, and Protea coaching teams, have also played a crucial role in shaping their competitive edge.
“Karate is more than a sport to us—it is a way of life,” said Sensei Links. “The benefits of karate are limitless, and the discipline, resilience, and focus that my sons have developed extend beyond the tatami into their academics, character, and behaviour.”
