‘I’D RATHER DIE IN THE RING’

In this fourth edition of the up close and personal column, we chat with recently-crowned Sports Star of the Year and fierce pugilist Zweli Dlamini.
He was crowned last Saturday at Esibayeni Lodge in Matsapha. The Matsapha Boxing Club boxer revealed three things we did not know about him. In this interview, he shares more things closest to his heart.
SPORTS DESK: If you were not in boxing, what other sport would you be playing?
Zweli Dlamini: Chess because its keeps your mind focused.

SD: Android or iPhone?
ZD: Android because it’s not complicated to use and it is friendly in data usage. It’s affordable.

SD: What is your dream car?
ZD: I would love to drive a Lexus LC500. I like its sporty look and its top speed.

SD: What kind of music do you listen to? What is your favourite song?
ZD: Hip hop but mostly SA... My favourite song is Lil Wayne’s ‘Can’t be broken’.

SD: Which church do you go to?
ZD:  I go to Metropolitan Church in Manzini.

SD: Who is your best friend?
ZD: My brother, Thabiso Dlamini who has always been there for me.

SD: Three things we didn’t know about Zweli Dlamini?
ZD: I’m a shy person who believes in action than talking.
I can sing gospel well ... I guess it runs in the family. My elder brother Siyabonga Dlamini has just joined Tshwane Gospel Choir.
I like pets, especially dogs; they are the best friend you could ever wish for.

SD: What is your favourite holiday destination?
ZD: India, just to taste their food.

SD: Who is your favourite international boxer right now?
ZD: Manny Pacquiao because he is short like me and I like his style of boxing.

SD: Who is your girlfriend?
ZD: I don’t have a girlfriend right now…

SD: Which book are you currently reading, if any?
ZD: The Brethren by John Grisham … it’s about law and life in prison.

SD: Which is worse ... beaten to a pulp in a ring or throwing in a towel?
ZD: Throwing in a towel is worse, being beaten is part of the sport and who knows, maybe you could get lucky and knock your opponent down with one punch?

SD: Was there any time when you felt provoked on the street and got tempted to use your boxing skills?
ZD: People have been afraid of me since primary school.

SD: What was your family’s first reaction when you joined boxing?
ZD: They were scared that I would get hurt, and suggested that I do another sport. But at the same time they supported me. My mum made sure that when I leave for a tournament I have everything I could possibly need.

SD: Any plans to turn professional?
ZD: Time will tell…

SD: Were there any fears in your first fight without a head guard?
ZD: Not that much because I always felt like the head guard drained your energy and it was a bit heavy.

SD: How do you unwind?
ZD: Watching movies

SD: What are your plans after retiring?
ZD: To start my own boxing club and search for young talent.

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