The combat sports community is in shock following the tragic death of Ncedo Gomby, one of South Africa's most talented and titled athletes. He will be remembered for his exceptional in-ring intelligence, composure, and concentration, which perfectly complemented his grace, timing, speed, and endurance.
Gomby was a pioneer of Muay Thai from South Africa and a multiple world and continental champion, earning international titles under WMC, WMO, and I-1. Furthermore, he won the IFMA Super Four 57kg tournament in Thailand and shared the ring with legends such as Saenchai and Rodtang.
Thousands of fans and fighters from around the world and across South Africa expressed their grief and shock on social media after the news of Gomby's death.
According to available information, Gomby was stabbed at an establishment in Woodstock on Monday evening during a conflict with another patron that escalated into violence.
Gomby's life partner and mother of his child, Anna-Rita Meyring, posted a touching message on social media on Tuesday evening confirming his death, which caused widespread shock and sorrow.
Although police have not yet established an official link between Gomby and the incident, a provincial police representative, Constable Ndakhe Gwala, confirmed the arrest of a 36-year-old man on suspicion of murder after a fatal stabbing at an alcohol establishment on Victoria Road, Woodstock, on Monday evening.
According to Gwala, the victim was stabbed three times in the chest and was pronounced dead at the scene. This news triggered a wave of tributes from fighters, coaches, and fans worldwide.
Among those who offered condolences were Raphael Wozniak, who wrote: «@ncedo_gomba it was an honor to share the ring with you, brother. I sincerely learned so much in those fights, and I am still learning. I hope we would have had a third... You are a champion and always will be. Rest in peace. Condolences to the family». Travis Hendrix noted: «I can't believe what I'm seeing. Choke dee, my brother Nak Muay». Lucile Vessels wrote: «I am so sorry to hear about @annaritamei. May Ncedo rest in peace. Sending love and prayers to you and your son». Former UFC and PFL athlete Don Madge expressed: «No, I cannot believe this. I am so sorry!» Rising African MMA star Terence Balelo wrote: «Lala ngoksolo, Big Brother. You will always be in my heart.»
Tributes poured in from all over the world, including the United States, Kuala Lumpur, Thailand, and other locations. Kwa Tham Lung stated: «Goodbye, Ncedo Gomby. My heart aches at the thought that you are gone». Congolese Top Tim also paid tribute, posting: «This world is sick, dude! So much hate and murder! Rest in peace, Ncedo».
Gwala reported that Woodstock police arrested a 36-year-old suspect following the stabbing incident on Victoria Road, Woodstock, on Monday, August 17, 2026, around 8:44 PM. «According to reports, the suspect got into an argument with an unidentified adult male in an alcohol establishment. The suspect stabbed the victim three times in the chest, and he was declared dead by medical personnel at the scene. A murder case has been registered, and the investigation is ongoing».
Gomby, one of the best combat sports athletes South Africa has produced, will be known for his outstanding tactical thinking, calm demeanor, and focus in the ring—qualities that perfectly complemented his posture, timing, speed, and stamina. His influence on Muay Thai in South Africa and internationally extended far beyond his ring achievements, inspiring generations of fighters with his skill, professionalism, and fighting spirit. As the combat community mourns his passing, tributes from around the world serve as a testament to the impact Gomby had on the sport and the people around him.
