Machimana back in the Nick of time
SEVERAL boxers in the past have exercised their freedom of association by bolting from Nick Durandt’s stable to join other mentors.
But most have come back, cap in hand, begging the prolific swearer to take them back.
The list includes legendary Cassius Baloyi, who remains the only local boxer ever to have won six world titles in three weight divisions.
Not so long ago Osborne “Big Daddy ” Machimana left Durandt and joined Peter Smith.
But Machimana was a shadow of his former self in his fight against Elvis Moyo. He could only manage a draw against the novice of six fights, over six rounds.
The result was an achievement for the Zimbabwean considering that Machimana is a vastly experienced former South African heavyweight champion.
The South African is now back with Durandt.
When Times Media asked him yesterday why he has rejoined a man he left twice before, Machimana said: “Fitness brought me back. The moment I leave Nick my weight just balloons and I’m unable to perform.
“And, of course, his management skills are second to none.
“Training in his gym also brings back my confidence because there are lots of boxers here, so that alone is good enough to motivate me to want to do well.
“I can tell you that I have already lost five kilograms since I came back to Nick two weeks ago.
“This is the last chapter in my career, ” said the 34-year-old boxer from Tzaneen. “I’m going to win the vacant SA heavyweight title, which will be my ticket to bigger things before I call it quits.”