Edge Fitness boss accused of racism

EDGE Fitness Joint in Gonubie has been shaken by a racism scandal after fitness trainer Sipho Madyaka accused his boss David Linington of calling him a k*****.

The Daily Dispatch is in possession of WhatsApp messages between Madyaka and Linington with the latter apologising to Madyaka.

However, Linington, who has denied using the k-word, said he was apologising for a “joke” in which he questioned Madyaka about a stolen phone.

Madyaka said things had gone wrong between them after Linington accused him of stealing the work phone in January.

“I was with three of my colleagues on the floor who are all white. David asked me where was his phone.”

Madyaka said he and his colleagues were surprised he was the only person asked.

“I asked him later as to why he suspected me of stealing his phone and he replied that it was because ‘I don’t trust k******’.”

Madyaka was in the news in September when he collided with a female co-worker while riding a motorbike in the parking area of King’s Mall where the gym is located.

Yesterday, Linington denied using the k-word but confirmed making a comment about Madyaka being the only black guy around when his phone was lost.

“I regret saying what I said. It was a joke and I did apologise to Sipho. Maybe I should not have made that joke but I have never used the k-word.

“No one would dare call Sipho that word – he is big and aggressive.” —