CONSTANTINO NANGA has undergone an extraordinary transformation from a chaotic life surrounded by unruly football supporters to being recognized as one of the most thrilling light-heavyweight talents in the world.

This undefeated force, who hails from Angola but now calls Sweden home, once dreamt of emulating Cristiano Ronaldo by donning the iconic Manchester United shirt during his childhood.

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Nanga previously entertained thoughts of becoming a notorious hooligan, heavily inspired by movies like ‘Football Factory’.

Immersing himself in the hooligan lifestyle, he found himself thriving amidst the chaos and violence associated with clashes against rival factions.

However, after demonstrating his fighting skills against various adversaries, an elder from his hooligan group advised him to direct his fighting passion toward a more constructive outlet.

In a candid discussion with SunSport, the 28-year-old reflected: “At one stage, it struck me that I wouldn’t become a professional footballer.

“So the transition felt natural. I pondered, ‘What’s my next goal?’ Football hooliganism.

“Through that lifestyle, I stumbled upon fighting, and a senior member of my group said, ‘You have genuine talent.’

“‘You need to step back from the hooligan scene and start treating this fighting seriously.’

“They motivated me to approach fighting with greater seriousness. That’s the journey that brought me here.”

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Nevertheless, Nanga did not approach the tough training sessions at the gym with the ambition of becoming a champion boxer.

“I never saw myself as a professional fighter,” he reminisced.

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“Even when preparing for fights, it was never with the intention of turning professional. My main focus remained on football.

“My secondary aim was to be the best football hooligan—number one.

“Thus, I trained in fighting purely to become the toughest hooligan.

“I dedicated the same seriousness to hooliganism that I now apply to my fighting, striving for excellence in both pursuits.”

While Nanga aspired to become the most notorious football hooligan, his dedication in the gym ultimately led to triumphs in the ring.

The 175lb contender boasts an impressive unbeaten record of 12-0 since he began his professional career in November 2022.

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Although he is not yet widely known, he has already garnered the attention of boxing icon Lennox Lewis, who is mentoring him as he climbs the ranks.

Receiving guidance from the undisputed heavyweight champion has proven to be an exceptional experience for Nanga.

He shared: “I feel honored that [Lennox chose to mentor me]. Perhaps it’s destiny; who’s to say?

“What I appreciate most is that it could’ve been anyone else—another fighter, a different promoter, or any number of boxing figures who could have propelled my career.

“But it’s Lennox’s character, persona, and his very essence that I hold in high regard.

“He personifies everything I hoped for in a mentor.”

Lewis envisions a bright future for Nanga, provided he seizes the right opportunities and listens to his invaluable advice.

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