MEC Mathabo Leeeto sends condolences to Durandt family

The Free State MEC for Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation Mrs Mathabo Leeeto would like to take this opportunity to send her heartfelt condolences on behalf of the Department to the family, friends, fans, and colleagues of the legendary boxing trainer Nick Durandt who tragically passed on in a motorbike accident near Bethlehem and Clarens in the Free State on 21 April 2017.

During his lifetime Durandt produced world champions, South African champions and boasted the biggest boxing stable in South Africa. He produced 95 South African champions in all 17 weight divisions, 38 world champions and 27 international champions through the WBC, WBA, IBF, WBO, WBF, and IBO organisations.

Boxers such as Tommy Brooks, George Benton, Lou Duva, Alton Merkerson, Pernell Whitaker, Roy Jones Jr, Evenader Hoyfield are among the long list of international champions who came through the training of the late Durandt.

Locally, Durandt trained boxers such as Thulani Malinga – a three time South African and world champion, Cassius Baloyi, Silence Mabuza, Issac Hlatshwayo, Philip Ndou, Jacob Mofokeng, Jeffrey Mathebula, Malcolm Klassen, Siphiwe Nonqayi, Hawk Makepula, Moruti Mthalane and Zolani Tete.

Speaking about this boxing legend MEC Leeto said, “Nick Durandt has passed on at a time when South African boxing is being resuscitated as a sport code that is loved dearly by millions of South Africans. He has undoubtedly made a huge contribution to the rich history and heritage that the South African Boxing is renowned for.

May his soul rest in peace.”

Province

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