Former multiple world champion boxer-turned-lawyer Lovemore Ndou has emerged as a messiah to imprisoned fellow pugilist Thomas ‘Tommy Gun’ Oosthuizen, who has been behind bars for about nine months now.
Ndou, who is now based in Australia, has hired a lawyer to defend Oosthuizen.
He is facing four charges of assault with the intent to cause grievous bodily harm, a further four charges of crimen injuria (unlawfully, intentionally and seriously impairing the dignity of another) and a charge of resisting arrest.
All the above matters are being heard in the Boksburg Magistrate’s Court.
The former multiple International Boxing Organisation champion is also a defendant in an assault matter with his brother, Charles, which is being heard at the Vosloorus Magistrate’s Court.
In a conversation on a social media platform, Ndou explained the reason behind his gracious gesture.
“It’s simple. I only treat people the way they treat me and not on what I hear or have heard about them. There’s always pride in helping somebody turn their life around,” said Sydney-based Ndou.
“Tommy has always shown me respect. He travelled with me to the UK when I fought Matthew Hatton, to support me. He has always remained in contact with me through Facebook and continues to show me respect.
“I see him as my little brother who needs a big brother’s help and guidance. Tommy is not the only fighter or person I helped out. I’m constantly contacted by fellow South Africans asking for help. I look at each request on a case-by-case basis and if I can help I do just that.
“I believe in umuntu ngumuntu ngabantu (you are who you are because of other people).”
Oosthuizen echoed Ndou’s sentiments over a social media platform.
“Lovemore was the one to teach me how to defend overseas like a champion when he fought Hatton and they gave the fight a draw.
“But I was in England ringside that night and Lovemore won that fight, in my honest opinion,” explained 32-year-old Oosthuizen.
“He is a true professional, in and out of the ring, and a brilliant example to me since I met him.
“I will insert his professionalism in my life, in and outside of the ring. He is by far the best example I could have to get myself together. I truly admire Lovemore Ndou as a friend, man, champion and example of how to be a champion person.”
Oosthuizen made his latest appearances on the nine charges in the Boksburg Magistrate’s Court on October 14, where the matter was postponed to November 16, and in the Vosloorus Magistrate’s Court with his brother the following day, October 15, where the matter was postponed to October 30.
Also Read: Tommy Gun becomes a father again from behind bars
Also Read: New trouble for Tommy Gun as state adds three more charges
