Nontshinga: What makes the champ tick
Fresh from his IBF junior-flyweight title win in Mexico, Sivenathi Nontshinga opens up to Weekender
Q: What do you typically eat or drink before a boxing match?
My most cherished item is my first IBF boxing title. Its sentimental value is priceless. It is a constant reminder of my hard work, my literal sweat and blood reward.
A: I usually have a light meal, such as chicken breast with vegetables, and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
Q: What can we expect from you this year, as far as boxing is concerned?
A: You can expect me to continue pushing myself to new heights, aiming for more titles and exciting fights.
Q: What book or books are on your bedside table at the moment?
A: I’m currently reading “Mind Gym: An Athlete’s Guide to Inner Excellence” by Gary Mack.
Q: What is the most cherished or expensive item you own and what would you say it is worth?
A: My most cherished item is my first IBF boxing title. Its sentimental value is priceless. It is a constant reminder of my hard work, my literal sweat and blood reward.
Q: What’s your favourite childhood memory?
A: My favourite childhood memory is when I won my first boxing match at the age of 12.
Q: If you had to eat only one dish for the rest of your life, what would it be?
A: I would choose grilled chicken with vegetables.
Q: If you weren’t a boxer, what would you be?
A: I would probably be an engineer.
Q: What’s the best piece of advice you’ve received from a coach/mentor?
A: My coach always tells me: “When you fall get up and start fighting forward, stay focused, stay disciplined and never give up.
Q: If you could have dinner with any historical figure, who would they be and why?
A: I would love to have dinner with Nelson Mandela, to learn from his wisdom and leadership.
Q: Who or what inspires you and why?
A: My family inspires me. They have always supported me and believed in me, even when things were tough.
Q: What is your guilty pleasure?
A: I enjoy indulging in a good piece of chocolate cake. That’s my way of rewarding myself for the hard work I put in daily.
Q: Tea or coffee?
A: I’m not a fan of hot beverages, but I’ll choose coffee.
Q: Do you have a favourite TV programme/ or film?
A: I enjoy watching documentaries about boxing legends.
Q: What do you enjoy doing in your spare time, apart from sports?
A: I enjoy spending time with my family and friends and travelling.
Q: Do you have a skincare routine? If so, please share it with us.
A: I keep my skincare routine simple, using a gentle cleanser, exfoliating and moisturising.
Q: What do you typically get up to in the first two hours of waking up every day?
A: I start my day with my wake-up song while preparing a nice smoothie and maybe a light breakfast, followed by a workout
and indulging in some documentary or motivational podcasts.
Q: If you could instantly solve one of the world’s problems, what would it be and why?
A: I would solve world hunger, because no-one should go to bed hungry.
Q: If you were to wake up as the opposite gender for 24 hours, how would you spend those hours?
A: I would spend the day experiencing life from a different perspective, trying to understand the challenges faced by the opposite gender and fighting against abuse and inequality.
Q: Do you have any superstitions or rituals before going in the boxing ring?
A: I always say a prayer before entering the ring, to ask for strength and protection, but my biggest superstition is being celibate for a while before going into a boxing match.
Q: Who was your biggest influence or inspiration when you started your career?
A: Errol Spencer internationally and Zolani Tete here in Mzansi. They both wear their hearts on their sleeves and every time when they lost a fight they got up and fought their way to the top.
Q: Can you share a funny or memorable moment from your work?
A: One time, during a gym session, my sparring partner’s shorts ripped from behind and we had to pause the match while he went to change into a new pair and we were all laughing our lungs out.
Q: Word has it that you are quite the fashionista. What is your favourite clothing item and why?
A: I love my boxing robe. It makes me feel like a champion every time I wear it. But besides that I love anything that looks good, with good quality and that will make me look good.
Q: What would you list as your greatest achievement?
A: Becoming the IBF flyweight champion twice at the of 25. It’ sa dream come true.
Q: Do you have a secret talent that no-one knows about?
A: Dancing! I move like I ain’t got bones.
Q: What is the craziest thing you have ever done?
A: I once went to do the Rocco Mamas hot wings challenge, and it didn’t end well. Ended up with an upset tummy and in the restroom I felt flames.*