Nic Laubscher transforms his 'weakness' into fighting strength

Martial artists are guided to their chosen self-defence art for a variety of reasons. Some seek personal protection from bullying, others pursue mental health benefits, work through trauma or overcome forms of addiction.

Nic Laubscher’s journey is no different.

Growing up on the autism spectrum, specifically with Asperger’s syndrome, he faced speech delays, learning difficulties and social challenges.

These factors shaped his childhood in Edgemead and made him a target for bullying, often involving physical violence.

Experiencing such hardships could turn anyone away from confrontation, and Laubscher admits he initially felt the same. But his path changed unexpectedly when he accompanied a friend to PFC Gym in Bothasig.

There, he discovered mixed martial arts and found what he describes as his second family. “Coach Angelo Adinnal saved my life,” he says, referring to the coaching staff who guided him from the age of 18, when he first put on fight gloves.

Now 25, Laubscher is set to face Reuben Job this weekend in what promises to be a highly entertaining bout.

He has emerged as one of Cape Town’s most exciting prospects, meeting an equally formidable opponent in Job for the flyweight belt of the new Undisputed MMA Championship promotion.

The fight will take place at Oaklands High School on Saturday, November 29.

During media day at Fighterz Inc. in Wetton last Saturday, Laubscher shared his story.

He explained how traits associated with his condition, including obsessive tendencies, have become assets in his fighting career. “Violence was something I never wanted, not even to confront, because I was an easy target,” he said.

“Training and fighting became the biggest obsession I’ve ever had. I fell in love with the sport," he said.

It took him years to understand how to channel his condition positively, but Laubscher said he now sees it as a weapon.

“It’s both a curse and a gift,” he said. “In fighting, it allows me to see things other fighters miss. It gives me a very high fight IQ. I can pick up on clues and tendencies instantly; it’s like a superpower. The thing I hated growing up, which once felt like my weakness, is now my greatest strength,” he said.

Laubscher’s clash with Job is one of four title fights on the Undisputed MMA Promotions card, the new promotion led by Fidaah Edries and Irfaan Ally.

As his story shows, what once seemed like a disadvantage has transformed into the foundation of a promising and inspiring fighting career.