Gonya’s huge family want that title

SIBONISO Gonya will not only be representing KwaZulu-Natal when he challenges Mdantsane boxing hero Zolani Tete on Saturday, but his 37 siblings.

Gonya comes from a polygamous family, with his father Mzonyathi having seven wives and 38 children.

On Saturday, he will attempt to unseat Tete for his WBO bantamweight crown at the SSE Arena in Ireland.

Speaking to the Daily Dispatch from Belfast yesterday, Gonya said he was on a mission to bring the title home to his family.

Gonya, 25, was given a rousing farewell by KZN department of sports, recreation, arts and culture MEC Bongi Moloi, who asked him to bring the title back to the province.

“I am carrying one message from many people, including the MEC, that I should bring this title back home. My family is behind me and so is the MEC so I cannot afford to let them down,” he said.

Gonya arrived in Belfast on Saturday to a warm welcome, with some fans even betting their money on him to upset Tete.

His promoter, Thulani Magudulela, who is with him, together with chief trainer Zwi Magudulelala, said they were surprised to receive such a warm welcome.

Tete, however, dismissed Gonya, saying they were not in the same league.

The world champ went as far as predicting a fourth round stoppage.

But the KZN boxer laughed off the predictions, challenging Tete to back up his words.

“I hope he will indeed try to knock me out because that will make my job easy,” he said.

The two, who have never met, are set to come up close and personal for the first time at the final press conference of the fight tomorrow at the fight venue.