The deal was brokered by QT Sports following Mbokazi‘s rapid rise in South African football. The partnership also embraces the 20-year-old’s popular nickname, “TLB”, which supporters gave him because of his powerful defending.
MBEKEZELI MBOKAZI’S NICKNAME INSPIRES DEAL
The nickname refers to a Tractor-Loader-Backhoe (TLB) machine. Fans use it to describe Mbokazi’s strength, work rate and ability to stop attacks.
In a promotional video released by QT Sports, Mbokazi is seen juggling a football alongside Caterpillar (Cat) construction machinery. Barloworld Equipment, the official Southern African dealer for Cat, says the campaign reflects the defender’s powerful presence on the field.
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The endorsement follows a remarkable year for the former Orlando Pirates star. Mbokazi made his senior debut in March 2025 and quickly established himself as one of the club’s key players.
Mbokazi joined the Orlando Pirates reserve team in 2023 after impressing for Langalibalele Sports Academy in the Engen U19 Knockout tournament. He made his senior debut under Jose Riveiro in a 1-0 win over Chippa United on 5 March 2025 and quickly established himself as a first-team regular.
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CHICAGO FIRE MOVE BOOSTS PROFILE
Chicago Fire FC signed Mbokazi in December 2025 for a reported R52 million. The transfer made him the most expensive defender in Premier Soccer League history.
The centre-back also impressed at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where he played every minute of Bafana Bafana’s run to the Round of 32. His performances attracted interest from clubs abroad, with reports linking him to a future move to the English Premier League.
Although Mbokazi is recovering from a thigh injury that ruled him out of the MLS All-Star Game, his latest partnership with Barloworld Equipment highlights his growing profile on and off the pitch.
