IBF JUNIOR-FLYWEIGHT champion, Sivenathi “Special One” Nontshinga, strongly believes that he is now a better boxer after losing to Adrian Curiel last year in November.
The elated Nontshinga was speaking to the media after arriving at O.R.Tambo International Airport in Kempton Park from Mexico - where he reclaimed his belt from Curiel who previously knocked him out in the second round in Monaco.
In Mexico, the referee had to intervene in the 10th round of the match following an avalanche of punches thrown at Curiel by the hardworking Nontshinga from the Eastern Cape.
After a stupendous victory away from home, Nontshinga told a good number of boxing followers gathered at O.R. Tambo International Airport that losses do not define anyone but:
“First of all, I would like to thank God for giving me such a big moment. I thank you for coming here to welcome me and I thank my team led by Colin Nathan who has been there for me.
“You know, I appreciate the loss because I am not the person I was a year ago. I have grown now. So, that’s why I always emphasize that you have to take your losses on the chin, chip up and put your shoulders high and be proud of your losses. The losses make us the people we are.”
The 25-year old boxer says success did not come easy because he had to sacrifice the December holidays with the family to prepare for revenge against a tough Curiel.
“I feel very happy and grateful. The achievements make me humble, seeing that I have lost before. I am happy to raise the flag of the country and carry it on my shoulders,” said Nontshinga, who also paid tribute to his father Themba Gopheni.
Gopheni has been with the boxer in his journey since the early stages of his career.
Gopheni himself spoke highly of the victory coming after a loss.
“I won’t be long, I just want to thank everybody who supported Sive. We did everything as a team. I’m just worried Colin is not here,” said an emotional Gopheni.