The Buffalo City Metro received it’s special son yesterday in the form of newly crowned IBF world champion Sivenathi “Special One” Nontshinga.
EC Sports, Arts, Recreation and Culture MEC Nonceba Khontsiwe and BCM Deputy Executive Mayor Councillor Princess Faku were there to welcome the champion upon his landing at the Airport.
He was received with flowers, hugs and kisses before a motorcade parade towards the East London City hall.
Nontshinga was commended by the Deputy Executive Mayor Cllr Faku for putting the City on the map, calling him an inspiration to many aspiring youngsters in the region.
The young champion is only 23-years-old and was accompanied by his trainer and father Thembani Gopheni and manager Nathan.
He is the youngest boxer of this era in SA to win a legitimate world title. His victory and winning the IBF belt in Mexico last Sunday morning made him the only IBF holder here.
By winning the prestigious IBF crown, Nontshinga joins other legendary sons of Buffalo City, who have achieved such an accolade including Welcome Ncitha, Vuyani Bungu, Mbulelo Botile, Zolani Petelo, Simphiwe Nongqayi and Zolani Tete.
