Jantjies boxes clever for Super Rugby success

EVER wondered why Elton Jantjies has become a better, stronger and more confident No 10 in recent times?

He says his taking up boxing in 2015 has been vital in his development as a more accomplished player. And he’s hoping the skills gained will help him and his teammates drive the Lions to success in this year’s Super Rugby competition, which for the Lions gets under way tomorrow against the Jaguares in Buenos Aires.

Jantjies managed to get several of his Lions team-mates involved in the sport as well.

“It’s something that’s definitely helped with my fitness; it’s given me stamina to go longer.

“Boxing fit is different to rugby fit but it doesn’t mean it doesn’t add value ... and in this case the boxing has definitely added value. My upper body is stronger and I feel I move quicker now, because of the foot speed needed to box efficiently.

“And, I think my decision-making on the rugby field has been helped because of the quick decisions one has to make in the ring. It’s all about going the extra mile to be better than the next guy.”

The most famous modern-day player to climb in the ring has got to be All Blacks star Sonny Bill Williams, who is the New Zealand Professional Boxing Association heavyweight champion and WBA International heavyweight champion.

Williams once described his preparation for a fight in 2010 as being “good off-season training.”

The boxing bug has hit a number of the Lions’ players, with the likes of Marvin Orie, Aphiwe Dyantyi, Courtnall Skosan, Lionel Mapoe and Hacjivah Dayimani now also pulling on the gloves in their spare time.

So, can we expect Jantjies to go the same route as Williams and take on a professional at some point in the future? “It’s tempting ... maybe, definitely,” chuckles the flyhalf.

Who knows, perhaps it’ll be against Williams?